The safe removal of central venous catheters.
Many nurses working in general wards and departments are caring for patients with central venous catheters and are increasingly responsible for their removal. This article outlines the basis of good practice and the possible complications, focusing on air embolism.
Ingram
P
P
The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh. paula.ingram@luht.scot.nhs.uk
Sinclair
Linda
L
Edwards
Toby
T
D001458:Bandages; D019985:Benchmarking; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D020878:Device Removal; D004618:Embolism, Air / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D004868:Equipment Failure; D018475:Head-Down Tilt; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control; D018579:Patient Selection; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D014636:Valsalva Maneuver