What is a

Central Line?

A simple introduction to intravenous catheters,
their uses and how they work.

What it is used for

DRUG INFUSION

Long-term infusion of drugs and/or chemotherapy

MONITOR ATRIAL BLOOD PRESSURE

A direct measurement of blood pressure,
often used in intensive care units

BLOOD SAMPLING

Used in patients that require emergency venous access in
which sampling from peripheral veins can’t be obtained

Anatomy

Catheters can be interested through a peripheral vein (eg arm/leg) or,
more commonly a central vein such as the jugular or subclavian (chest).

TYPES OF CATHETERS USED

PICC

Usually inserted from the arm and
“tunnelled” to the heart

CENTRAL LINE

“Tunnels” through the chest, into the vein and onto
the heart. Also known as a Hickman® or Groshong® line

PORT-A-CATH

A small port that is installed beneath the skin

CONDITIONS THAT MAY REQUIRE A CENTRAL LINE

Dialysis

CRITICAL CARE

Heart surgery

Cancer

Central lines are inserted in a range of clinical settings
by radiologists, anaesthetists, nephrologists,
oncologists, surgeons, general physicians and paediatricians.

LONG TERM USE ASSOCIATED WITH COMPLICATIONS

INFECTION

Wearing a visible catheter draws attention to a child’s illness and can affect their sense of self

MENTAL HEALTH

40% of primary blood stream infections were related to a centralvenous catheter

PULLING THE LINE

Children risk accidental removal or damage in their everyday movements or interactions with others

The experience from the families we work with directly shows CHOOB TOOB can significantly help in all of these areas.

To hear their stories and read first-hand reviews

Click here