[Septicemic complications of venous perfusion catheterization. 4 years' experience in an intensive care unit]

Septicemia is a complication of prolonged venous catheterisation; although rare, is at present important owing to the severity of the condition and the possibility of prevention. The severity should lead one to very careful precautions to avoid sepsis, which antibiotic therapy and emergencies often lead one to neglect. The development of research on the prophylaxis of septicemia suggests that in the future, prolonged intravenous fluid may be given less dangerously. They are usually essential during the initial stages of intensive care.