Vascular Access in Pediatric Patients: An Evidence-Based Approach

Types of VADs 

• Peripheral devices (most common)
  • Standard short peripheral IV
  • Ultrasound guided long IV
  • Midline
  • Intraosseous (uncommon)
  • External jugular vein catheter
    • All are inserted by clinicians with specialized training
• Central devices
  • Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC)
  • Centrally Inserted Central Catheter
  • Implanted vascular access devices
  • Tunneled vascular access device

Assessment and Troubleshooting

• Peripheral devices
• Central devices

Care and maintenance

• Regular assessment is key, regardless of whether the device is peripheral or central
• YOUR timely assessment can prevent patient harm!
  • Peripheral devices…Look, feel, listen
  • Central devices…Look, feel, listen
• Follow your institution’s policies and procedures for frequency of assessing VADs and performing dressing changes.
• Peripheral IV insertion
• PICC or midline insertion at the bedside