Venous access

Venous Access

A healthcare professional preparing to administer medication through venous access.

Venous access refers to the process of gaining entry into a vein to administer medication, fluids, or to obtain blood for testing. It is a critical procedure in medicine and is commonly performed in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and emergency medical services.

Types of Venous Access

There are several types of venous access, each suited for different medical needs:

Peripheral Venous Access

Peripheral venous access involves inserting a cannula or catheter into a vein located in the arm, hand, or sometimes the foot. This is the most common form of venous access and is typically used for short-term treatments.

Central Venous Access

Central venous access involves placing a catheter into a large vein, often in the neck, chest, or groin. This type of access is used for long-term treatments, administration of chemotherapy, or when peripheral access is not feasible.

Midline Catheters

Midline catheters are inserted into a vein in the upper arm and are used for intermediate-term treatments. They are longer than peripheral catheters but do not reach the central veins.

Indications for Venous Access

Venous access is indicated for various medical purposes, including:

• Administration of IV fluids and medications
• Blood sampling for laboratory tests
• Administration of blood transfusions
• Nutritional support through parenteral nutrition

Complications

While venous access is generally safe, it can be associated with complications such as:

• Infection at the insertion site
• Phlebitis, or inflammation of the vein
• Thrombosis, or blood clot formation
• Air embolism

Related Pages

• Intravenous therapy
• Central venous catheter
• Phlebotomy