Features and selection of vascular access devices.
OBJECTIVE
To review venous anatomy and physiology, discuss assessment parameters before vascular access device (VAD) placement, and review VAD options.


METHODS
Journal articles, personal experience.


CONCLUSIONS
A number of VAD options are available in clinical practice. Access planning should include comprehensive assessment, with attention to patient participation in the planning and selection process. Careful consideration should be given to long-term access needs and preservation of access sites.


CONCLUSIONS
Oncology nurses are uniquely suited to perform a key role in VAD planning and placement. With knowledge of infusion therapy, anatomy and physiology, device options, and community resources, nurses can be key leaders in preserving vascular access and improving the safety and comfort of infusion therapy.
Sansivero
Gail Egan
GE
Department of Radiology, Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA. sansivg@mail.amc.edu
D000367:Age Factors; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000451:nursing; D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000451:nursing; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000600:supply & distribution*; D015897:Comorbidity; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000451:nursing; D008487:Medical History Taking; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010358:Patient Participation; D018579:Patient Selection; D010808:Physical Examination; D012449:Safety; D014680:Veins / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology