Central venous catheters: Indications, techniques, and complications

Abstract

Central venous catheters (CVC) are commonplace in the management of critically ill patients and serve a variety of purposes. Venous access is important for the administration of fluid and medications as well as blood procurement needed for lab analyses. However, not every critically ill patient requires a CVC. This article highlights the key considerations, pitfalls and evidence-based practices regarding the use pediatric central venous catheters.