Figure 21.1 Advantages and disadvantages of central venous access devices (CVADs) Figure 21.2 Advantages and disadvantages of each CVAD Figure 21.3 Implantable ports Figure 21.4 Tunnelled device
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Central venous devices
A central venous access device (CVAD) is an intravenous device that is inserted into the central circulation (Green 2008), reducing the need for frequent venepuncture or intravenous cannulation. CVADs are most commonly used for fluid or drug administration and blood sampling. The placement of an indwelling catheter (CVAD) has a crucial role in the administration of treatment to many children and young people with acute and chronic conditions, within various care settings and the home environment.
The type of device selected for use will vary according to:
- Age of the child or young person
- Type of treatment required
- Frequency of use
- Length of time treatment is required:
- Short term – <7 days/weeks
- Intermediate – weeks/months
- Long term – a month or longer/years/indefinite.
- Short term – <7 days/weeks
Types of CVAD
There are four main types of CVAD:
- 1 Non-tunnelled devices
- 2 Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs)
- 3 Tunnelled devices
- 4 Implantable ports (Scales 2010a).
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