RT Book, Section A1 Wittnebel, Karl D. A1 Rosen, Bradley T. A2 McKean, Sylvia C. A2 Ross, John J. A2 Dressler, Daniel D. A2 Scheurer, Danielle B. SR Print(0) ID 1137613048 T1 Vascular Access T2 Principles and Practice of Hospital Medicine, 2e YR 2017 FD 2017 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 9780071843133 LK accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1137613048 RD 2024/03/28 AB A central venous catheter (CVC) is any vascular access device whose tip terminates in a large vessel in the body, most commonly the superior vena cava or inferior vena cava. Because indwelling lines pose definite risks to patients, steps should be taken whenever possible to minimize the risk of complications. Always seek operators with skill and experience, employ ultrasound for guidance, take the time to properly position patients, and employ meticulous sterile technique. The indications and necessity for central venous access must be critically reviewed prior to proceeding with a CVC insertion and each CV must be regularly reassessed for ongoing necessity and promptly removed as soon as the risks exceed the benefits.