Vascular Access in Hospitalized Patients

Publication date: January 2016 Source:Hospital Medicine Clinics, Volume 5, Issue 1 Author(s): Megan Faga, Brian WolfeTeaser Nearly every patient admitted to the hospital requires vascular access in order to manage fluid status, obtain diagnostic information, or administer therapeutic agents. Different types of vascular access devices exist to meet different indications, ranging from small peripherally placed intravenous catheters to surgically implanted subcutaneous ports. Although necessary, these devices place patients at increased risk for complications, notably infection, thrombosis, and bleeding. Therefore, it is critical for inpatient providers to understand the purpose and appropriate use of vascular access and to adhere to strict protocols describing how to place and manage these devices to prevent unnecessary harm.
Source: Hospital Medicine Clinics - Category: Internal Medicine Source Type: research