Central line
Formal Definition
Central venous catheter (CVC): a catheter placed into a large central vein (internal jugular, subclavian, femoral) for hemodynamic monitoring, vasopressor infusion, TPN, or when peripheral access is inadequate.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Central" or "triple lumen" — "This patient needs a central line for pressors" or "we can't run that drip peripherally."
Example
""Patient in cardiogenic shock on two vasopressors with blown peripheral veins — right IJ central line placed under ultrasound guidance. Confirmed by chest X-ray before use.""
Clinical Context
Vasopressors (norepinephrine, vasopressin, dopamine) should run through central access to avoid tissue necrosis from extravasation. Central lines carry infection risk (CLABSI) — always ask daily if the line is still needed. Femoral lines have higher infection rates; use IJ or subclavian when possible.