Patients with long-term vascular access devices: care and complications

Orthopaedic nurses will be dealing with more long-term vascular access devices, such as tunneled catheters, implanted ports, and peripherally inserted central catheters as antibiotic and other supportive intravenous therapy is administered over longer periods. Caring for patients with these devices requires an understanding of the purpose and design of the device, use and maintenance of the catheter or port, and actions to take if complications arise. Knowing the cause and response to the most common clinical problems, such as infection, occlusion, and thrombosis, will help in problem solving and support a variety of teaching strategies for patients. Nurses who are familiar with these central venous devices will be able to provide safe and effective care for patients in the hospital and at home.