Question | Answer |
What is a central venous access device (CVAD)? | A device whose tip terminates in the central venous circulation, usually the superior vena cava near the right atrium. |
How often should the dressing covering a CVAD insertion site be changed? | Gauze dressing every 48 hrs and as needed
Transparent semi-permeable membrane dressings every 5-7 days and as needed. Always follow your agency’s policy |
What is used to ensure a PICC line is properly secured? | StatLocks |
When should the catheter be measured during a CVAD dressing change? | Before removal of old dressing and after application of new dressing |
What is an appropriate action after applying Chlorhexidine to the CVAD insertion site? | Allow to dry completely. Do not wipe or blot |
What type of dressings are used to cover CVAD insertion sites? | Gauze dressing if the patient allergic or intolerant to transparent dressings or if
the insertion site is inflamed, draining, or a site infection suspected
Otherwise a transparent semi-permeable membrane dressings |
What information should be included on the CVAD dressing? | Date, time of change and initials |
List four types of central venous access devices. | Short-term, non-tunnelled CVAD - inserted directly into a central vein
PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter)
Long term, tunnelled CVAD
IVAD (Implanted Venous Access Device) |
What are CVADs used for? | Chemotherapy, TPN, long term medication treatment
Emerg access and for rapid infusion of fluids or blood products
To monitor central venous pressure
To provide venous access for patients who have poor peripheral venous access |
What can you do to prevent infection of CVADs? | Strict handwashing
Use sterile technique
Change dressings as recommended
Keep system closed as much as possible
Change tubing, solutions and injection caps as recommended by agency policy
Monitor for early signs of sepsis |