If a CVAD is placed in the subclavian or jugular vein, where will the tip of the catheter typically reside?

If a CVAD is placed in the subclavian or jugular vein, where will the tip of the catheter typically reside?

• A. Right atrium
• B. Inferior vena cava
• C. Superior vena cava
• D. Pulmonary artery

Answer: (C)

When a central venous access device (CVAD) is inserted into the subclavian or jugular vein, the typical destination of the catheter tip is the superior vena cava. The superior vena cava is the large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the head, neck, and upper extremities to the heart, specifically into the right atrium. Positioning the catheter tip in the superior vena cava is critical for effective venous access, as it ensures that the infused medications and fluids are delivered directly into the central circulation, allowing for optimal dilution and reducing the risk of irritation to the vessel walls. This placement also enables reliable pressure monitoring and blood sampling. In clinical practice, achieving an appropriate position of the CVAD tip is essential for minimizing complications such as thrombosis, malposition, or extravasation. Therefore, confirming that the catheter tip resides in the superior vena cava is a key consideration during and after the insertion procedure.

When a central venous access device (CVAD) is inserted into the subclavian or jugular vein, the typical destination of the catheter tip is the superior vena cava. The superior vena cava is the large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the head, neck, and upper extremities to the heart, specifically into the right atrium.

Positioning the catheter tip in the superior vena cava is critical for effective venous access, as it ensures that the infused medications and fluids are delivered directly into the central circulation, allowing for optimal dilution and reducing the risk of irritation to the vessel walls. This placement also enables reliable pressure monitoring and blood sampling.

In clinical practice, achieving an appropriate position of the CVAD tip is essential for minimizing complications such as thrombosis, malposition, or extravasation. Therefore, confirming that the catheter tip resides in the superior vena cava is a key consideration during and after the insertion procedure.