Safety aspects in patients on hemodialysis with catheters

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Patient Safety
• Vascular Access

Background:

• Central venous catheters (CVCs) are crucial for patient care but associated with various risks.
• Understanding CVC-related issues is essential for improving patient outcomes and safety.
• Different CVC types and their performance characteristics influence associated problems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of central venous catheter-related problems and safety hazards.
• To discuss factors influencing CVC complications in a chronological order.
• To highlight risks associated with CVC selection, insertion, use, monitoring, and interventions.

Main Methods:

• This chapter reviews existing literature and clinical knowledge on CVC-related issues.
• The discussion is organized chronologically, from initial CVC selection to interventional procedures.
• Exclusion of CVC infections, which are covered in a separate chapter.

Main Results:

• CVC-related problems stem from device characteristics, insertion site, and procedural factors.
• Risks are present throughout the CVC lifecycle, including selection, insertion, use, monitoring, and interventions.
• Specific safety hazards are identified for each stage of CVC management.

Conclusions:

• Addressing CVC-related problems requires careful consideration of device features and management protocols.
• Optimizing CVC selection, insertion, and monitoring can mitigate risks.
• Awareness of safety hazards during interventions is crucial for preventing adverse events.