Don’t start peripheral venous lines when an appropriate central access is available.

All available central venous access lines should be assessed for compatibility with contrast injections before a new peripheral venous line is started. This prevents starting unnecessary lines which are uncomfortable for patients.

 

Sources:

Bonciarelli G, et al. GAVeCeLT consensus statement on the correct use of totally implantable venous access devices for diagnostic radiology procedures. J Vasc Access. 2011 Oct-Dec;vol12(4):292-305. PMID: 21534233.

Bujis SB, et al. Systematic review of the safety and efficacy of contrast injection via venous catheters for contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Eur J Radiol Open. 2017 Sept;vol4:118-122. PMID: 29034281.

Herts BR, et al. Power injection of contrast media using central venous catheters: feasibility, safety, and efficacy. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2001 Feb;vol176(2):447-453. PMID: 11159092.

Plumb AA, et al. The use of central venous catheters for intravenous contrast injection for CT examinations. Br J Radiol. 2011 Mar;vol84(999):197-203. PMID: 21325362.

Tee FY, et al. Patient Perceptions and Experience of Pain, Anxiety and Comfort during Peripheral Intravenous Cannulation in Medical Wards: Topical Anaesthesia, Effective Communication, and Empowerment. International Journal of Nursing Science. 2015;vol5(2):41-46.

Wienbeck S, et al. Prospective study of access site complications of automated contract injection with peripheral venous access in MDCT. Am J Roentgenol. 2010 Oct;vol195(4):825-829. PMID: 20858804.