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A Protocol to Set Up Needle-Free Connector with Positive Displacement on Central Venous Catheter in Intensive Care Unit
09:57

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Complications of vascular catheters in the neonatal intensive care unit

Jayashree Ramasethu1

  • 1Division of Neonatology, Georgetown University Hospital, 3800 Reservoir Road, NW Suite M 3400, Washington, DC 20007, USA. jr65@gunet.georgetown.edu

Clinics in Perinatology
|February 19, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) intravascular catheters are vital but carry risks. This review covers potential complications, treatments, and prevention strategies for venous and arterial catheters in neonates.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Pediatric Critical Care
  • Vascular Access

Background:

  • Intravascular catheter insertion is a frequent invasive procedure in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
  • Technological advancements have enabled vascular access in increasingly smaller and sicker infants.
  • Growing awareness highlights potential life- and limb-threatening risks associated with these catheters.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review complications associated with venous and arterial catheters in the neonatal ICU.
  • To discuss current evidence-based treatment approaches for catheter-related complications.
  • To outline methods for preventing intravascular catheter complications in neonates.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current evidence on intravascular catheter complications in neonates.
  • Synthesis of data regarding risks, treatments, and preventative measures.
  • Focus on both venous and arterial catheter complications.

Main Results:

  • Intravascular catheters, while essential, are linked to significant neonatal complications.
  • A range of adverse events can occur, impacting infant health and limb viability.
  • Evidence-based treatments and preventative strategies exist.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management and prevention of intravascular catheter complications are crucial in the NICU.
  • Understanding and applying current evidence can mitigate risks associated with neonatal vascular access.
  • Minimizing complications ensures better outcomes for critically ill neonates.

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