Before beginning any therapy through a CVAD, what must be confirmed?

Before beginning any therapy through a CVAD, what must be confirmed?

• A. The history of previous catheter uses
• B. Catheter placement and patency
• C. The patient’s ability to tolerate therapy
• D. Availability of needed medication

Answer: (B)

Confirming catheter placement and patency is essential before initiating any therapy through a Central Venous Access Device (CVAD). This step ensures that the catheter is positioned correctly within the central venous system, which is crucial for effective delivery of medications or fluids. Proper placement helps prevent complications such as accidental arterial puncture or infiltration into surrounding tissues. Patency checks confirm that the catheter is open and free from blockages, allowing for appropriate flow of fluids. A blocked or malpositioned catheter can lead to inadequate therapy, complications such as thrombosis, or potentially serious events like embolism or infection. Therefore, ensuring both correct placement and patency not only enhances patient safety but also maximizes the efficacy of the treatment being administered.

Confirming catheter placement and patency is essential before initiating any therapy through a Central Venous Access Device (CVAD). This step ensures that the catheter is positioned correctly within the central venous system, which is crucial for effective delivery of medications or fluids. Proper placement helps prevent complications such as accidental arterial puncture or infiltration into surrounding tissues.

Patency checks confirm that the catheter is open and free from blockages, allowing for appropriate flow of fluids. A blocked or malpositioned catheter can lead to inadequate therapy, complications such as thrombosis, or potentially serious events like embolism or infection. Therefore, ensuring both correct placement and patency not only enhances patient safety but also maximizes the efficacy of the treatment being administered.