Your central line catheter will not interfere with your daily activities if proper care is taken.
Troubleshooting – Central Line
Central Line IV Catheter Troubleshooting
On occasion, a problem may occur. A list of some of these problems, the causes, and what you should do about them is provided below. Your nurse may provide additional instructions.
Problem #1
Irritation of Vein (Phlebitis)
- Redness at IV site
- Pain/feeling of warmth at the IV site
Possible Cause
- Irritating medications
- Irritation from the IV
- Bacteria/infection
What To Do
- Call your nurse. She/he may give you telephone instructions or make arrangements to see you.
Problem #2
Leaking
Possible Cause
- Loose injection cap
- Damaged IV Line
What To Do
- Stop the infusion
- Check injection cap and tighten if necessary
- If the problem persists, call your nurse.
Problem #3
Resistance To Catheter Flushing. Medication Will Not Run Or Runs Slowly.
Possible Cause
- Roller clamp on tubing is not adjusted correctly
- Bag is spiked incorrectly
- Tubing is kinked
What To Do
- Check solution bag and spike connection.
- Check height of bag, (if gravity infusion).
- Check to be sure tubing is not clamped or kinked.
- Try changing the position of your arm.
- Stop the infusion and flush your catheter with saline (or sterile water if instructed) and attempt to restart the infusion.
- If the problem persists, call your nurse.
Problem #4
IV Falls Out
Possible Cause
- Dressing not securing IV catheter correctly.
What To Do
- Apply gauze to site.
- Apply pressure.
- Tape gauze in place.
- Call your nurse to arrange for a new catheter.
Important Tips
Always keep pets and animals out of the room while connecting the infusions to your IV. Always cover IV with plastic wrap when bathing – Sponge bathing is recommended.
The Nurse Will Change Dressing Weekly. Keep Dressing Clean And Dry.
Proper care of central line:
- Flush the line as instructed.
- Avoid using scissors or sharp objects near catheter.
- Keep site dry.
- Check site for redness, swelling, warmth or tenderness.
