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CVC Problems

This document provides information about potential problems with a central venous catheter (CVC) and what steps to take for each issue. It lists symptoms that require calling 911 immediately, such as shortness of breath or chest pain. It also details problems like the CVC coming out or signs of infection that should prompt calling a doctor or nurse. Maintaining clean dressing and checking for infections daily can help prevent issues. The document advises not using sharp objects near the CVC and clamping or taping any tears immediately before seeking medical help.

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Andrew Joshua
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41 views2 pages

CVC Problems

This document provides information about potential problems with a central venous catheter (CVC) and what steps to take for each issue. It lists symptoms that require calling 911 immediately, such as shortness of breath or chest pain. It also details problems like the CVC coming out or signs of infection that should prompt calling a doctor or nurse. Maintaining clean dressing and checking for infections daily can help prevent issues. The document advises not using sharp objects near the CVC and clamping or taping any tears immediately before seeking medical help.

Uploaded by

Andrew Joshua
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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PATIENT EDUCATION

patienteducation.osumc.edu

Problems with Your Central Venous


Catheter (CVC)
A CVC (central venous catheter) may be used for as long as you need
it, or as long as it is working well. Care of your CVC is important and can
help prevent problems. Here is information about the signs of possible
problems and what you should do.
Call 911 Emergency if you have any of the following:
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Feel lightheaded, dizzy or faint
• Feel nervous
• Fast heartbeat

If you have any of the symptoms listed above, lie down on


your left side and raise your head with a pillow or blanket.
Have someone call 911.

Call your doctor or home care nurse if you have any of the
following:
• Your CVC Accidentally Comes Out
 If your catheter comes out part way or totally out, do not push

the catheter line back in. Cover the area securely with a clean
bandage and hold firm pressure on the site, then call your doctor
or home care nurse right away.
• Problems Flushing the CVC
 If you have trouble flushing fluids make sure the catheter is not

kinked or clamped.
 If you still have a problem flushing the catheter it may be blocked.

Do not force fluids into the catheter. Call your doctor or home
care nurse right away.
This handout is for informational purposes only. Talk with your doctor or health care
team if you have any questions about your care.
© November 15, 2023. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and
Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
• Injection cap care
 Injection caps should always be screwed on tight to keep air from

getting into the catheter. (If a large amount of air gets into the
catheter, it could lead to an emergency that causes shortness of
breath or chest pain.) It is important to know how to clamp the
CVC and to have an extra clamp at home.
 If an injection cap comes off, clamp the tubing right away and call

your doctor.

• Signs of Infection
 Redness, swelling, tenderness, warmth or drainage where the

catheter enters your skin


 Chills or fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or

higher
 Dizziness, tiredness or unable to do your normal activities

 To help prevent infection it is important to keep your dressing

clean and dry at all times.


 Check your catheter site for signs of infection each day. If you
have any signs of infection, call your doctor right away.

• The CVC has a Cut or Tear


 Do not use sharp objects like scissors or a razor near your CVC.

 Signs that a CVC may be cut or torn include:

• Blood leaking from the catheter


• Drops of fluid leaking out of the catheter, especially during
flushing
• Fluid leaking out of the skin around the catheter
• Pain when fluid is injected into the catheter
 If fluid or blood is leaking from the end of the catheter, look to see
if the end of the CVC is not capped or a cap is not screwed on
tight. If a cap is loose, tighten it.
 If you find a tear in your catheter, immediately clamp it between
the tear and where the catheter exits your body.
 If you do not have a clamp, fold the catheter between the tear and
where the catheter exits your body and tape it together.
 Cover it with gauze and call your doctor or home care nurse.

Problems with Your Central Venous Catheter (CVC)

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