Central venous catheter
A central venous catheter is a thin tube whose tip sits in a large vein near the heart; during months of treatment it spares the veins in your arms.
01Short answer
02Simple explanation
Topic. central venous catheter.
Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.
Write down. Your questions.
Overview. The article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
03Scientific explanation
Lumens: each channel has its own cap; the team knows what runs through which.
Tunnel: some catheters run under the skin, which lowers infection risk.
04What happens in the body?
Central venous catheter
A catheter (for example a tunnelled line, or one in the neck or under the collarbone) is used to give medicines, blood and nutrition fluids and to take blood samples. It may have several channels (lumens) so that incompatible medicines can run at the same time. It is usually placed under local anaesthetic with ultrasound guidance.
In more detail
Lumens: each channel has its own cap; the team knows what runs through which. Tunnel: some catheters run under the skin, which lowers infection risk.
The overview
This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
05Central venous catheter: the steps
Four steps.
06Catheter warning signs
| Sign | What it may be | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature 38 °C or above, chills | Infection | Contact your team now |
| Redness or discharge at the exit site | Local infection | Tell your team |
| Catheter longer or leaking | Displacement | Contact your team now |
07Key terms
- Lumen
- An inner channel of the catheter.
- Tunnelled catheter
- A catheter with a path under the skin.
08Key points
- Everyone’s plan is individual.
- Write down and bring your questions.
- Report new symptoms early.
- Do not change medicines yourself.
- For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
- Overview: “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
09Frequently asked questions
Can I shower with a catheter?
Sometimes, with a special cover; ask your team.
Is this the same for everyone?
No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.
Where is the overview?
In the article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
10Questions for your doctor
Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.
Can I shower with a catheter?
Is this the same for everyone?
Where is the overview?
12Sources
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition of central venous catheter – NCI Dictionary
- MedlinePlus. Central venous catheters – ports
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Infection and Neutropenia during Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell Transplants in Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chemotherapy to Treat Cancer
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask about Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Female Fertility and Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Male Fertility and Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Hair Loss (Alopecia) and Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: remission