• describe the anatomical landmarks associated with the insertion of a central line

there is a triangle in the neck and the central line is placed at the apex of it between the medial and lateral borders of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle with the clavicals acting as a base

• discuss the reasons why a central line may be inserted

The 5 main reasons include

long term insertion of fluids (ease of administration esp after surgery)

checking of the Central venous pressure (measurement)

• Administration of drugs or products that would damage smaller caliber veins such as chemotherapy or parental nutrition

• Need to obtain venous access in a patient whose peripheral veins are shut down e.g. a patient with shock

• Administration of high flow fluids

• discuss the possible complications associated with the insertion of a central line

5 most common issues regarding insertion of. a Central line include

puncturing apex of lung (causing pneumothorax)

puncturing a major vessel

damage to thoracic lymphatic duct (if placed in on left)