Central Vascular Access Device: Care Instructions

Overview

A central vascular access device (CVAD) is a thin, flexible tube. It is used when you need to receive medicine, fluids, nutrients, or blood products for several weeks or longer. The medicine and fluids are put through the CVAD so that they move quickly into the blood. A CVAD is more comfortable than being poked with a needle every time.

A CVAD (also called a central line) is put through the skin into a vein, often in the neck, chest, arm, or groin. Usually about 12 inches of the line stays outside of the body. But sometimes the CVAD is completely under the skin. The line may have two or three ends, called lumens, so that you can get more than one medicine or fluid at a time. The end of each lumen is covered with a cap.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Always wash your hands with soap and water before you touch your device.
• To help prevent infection, take showers instead of baths. When you shower, cover the device with waterproof material, such as plastic wrap. Do not go swimming with a CVAD.
• Keep the dressing clean and dry. If you were given instructions about how to change the dressing at home, follow those instructions carefully.
• If your device has a clamp, keep it clamped when you are not using it.
• Do not wear clothing that rubs or pulls on it.
• Don't wear jewelry, such as necklaces, that can catch on the device.
• Talk to your doctor about what activities you can do. You may not be able to do sports or exercises that use the upper body.
• Clamp off the device if it breaks. Then go see a doctor as soon as possible.
• Your device will need regular flushing to keep it open. Your care team may do this for you. You or a caregiver can be taught to do this at home.
• Carry a medical alert card with you, and consider wearing a medical alert bracelet. These will tell health care providers you have a CVAD in case you need emergency care.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have severe trouble breathing.
• You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.
• You have a fast or uneven pulse.

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have swelling in your face, chest, neck, or arm on the side where the line is.
• You have signs of a blood clot, such as bulging veins in your neck.
• You have fluid leaking from around the line.
• You feel resistance when you inject medicine or fluids into your line.
• Your central line is out of place. This may happen after severe coughing or vomiting, or if something pulls on the central line.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the line.
  • Pus or blood draining from the line.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.