Recognition, prevention, and treatment of home total parenteral nutrition central venous access complications

Placement of central venous catheters for long-term administration of i.v. solutions in the home is associated with potential immediate and long-term complications. These complications can seriously threaten a patient's well-being and greatly increase costs. An understanding of anatomy and careful attention to detail can minimize the immediate complications, whereas thorough patient education and strict aseptic care techniques can reduce long-term complications. Early recognition and treatment of complications when they do occur can reduce patient injury and costs. In this document, the incidence, recognition, prevention, and treatment of various immediate and long-term complications will be discussed.