Central Venous Lines (CVP)

Central Venous Lines (CVP)

This pamphlet is about a central venous pressure (CVP) line and why it may be
needed. We would like to encourage you to read this pamphlet. The nurses and
doctors will also explain the use of this line. Feel free to ask us any questions
about the line and about any other aspect of care.

What is a CVP line?
A CVP line is a special intravenous (IV) line. The line may have 1, 2, or 3 parts
that can be connected to tubing or needle free adapters.
Why is it used?
We will explain why this line is needed.
A CVP line may be used when a patient needs:
• to have measurements taken that will help to determine the best treatment.
• a large vein IV access to give fluids and/or medications.
• a type of IV feeding called total parenteral nutrition (TPN).
One section of this line may be used for monitoring (CVP monitoring) when
patients are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Intermediate Care Unit (IMCU), or
Operating Room (OR). Sometimes, a patient on a regular nursing unit may need
a CVP line or may have one after transfer from a special care unit.
Where does the line
enter the body?
The doctor inserts the line into a
large vein in the neck or upper
chest. Sometimes the doctor may
need to place the line into a vein in
the groin or arm.
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How is a line inserted?
The doctor assisted by a nurse will insert the CVP line.
• The patient will be placed on his/her back. Usually the bed is tipped so the head
is lower than the foot.
• The area will be frozen.
• The skin will be cleaned.
• A needle is usually inserted into a large vein in the neck or upper chest. The
central line is placed in the correct position.
• The line is stitched to the skin.
• A clear dressing will be placed over the area.
• An X-ray will be done to ensure the catheter is positioned correctly.
What happens while the line is in place?
• The nurse will take measurements and blood samples or run TPN (total
parenteral nutrition) or medications.
• If the line is needed for more than 4 days, the nurse will change the tubing and
the clear dressing.
• Sometimes, parts of the central line have needle free adapters and there is no
tubing connected. These are changed everyday.
How is the catheter removed?
The doctor decides when the patient is well enough to have the line removed.
The nurse will remove it.
• First, the stitch is cut and removed.
• The nurse removes the catheter. There will not be any discomfort.
• Pressure will be applied for 5 - 10 minutes. Then a dressing will be placed over
the area.
What are the risks of a CVP line?
There is a risk of:
• infection
• irregular heart beats
3
• collapsed lung
• bleeding
• death
Your doctor will discuss/explain these risks with you.
We know that this is a stressful time for all of you. This may make it very difficult
to remember things. We want to help you understand all aspects of care. If at any
time you wish us to review information, do not hesitate to ask.

Central Venous Lines (CVP)

Central Venous Lines (CVP)

This pamphlet is about a central venous pressure (CVP) line and why it may be
needed. We would like to encourage you to read this pamphlet. The nurses and
doctors will also explain the use of this line. Feel free to ask us any questions
خطوط الوسطى وريدي (CVP)

هذا الكتيب هو عن الخط الوريدي المركزي (CVP) والسبب في ذلك الضغط
قد يكون
الحاجة. نود أن نشجعكم على قراءة هذا الكتيب. الممرضات
و
وسوف يشرح الأطباء أيضا استخدام هذا الخط. لا تتردد في طلب منا أي
الأسئلة