A New Formula-Based Measurement Guide for Optimal Positioning of Central Venous Catheters
Purpose: To validate the formula-based central venous catheter (CVC) length measurement “tailored” to individual's height and access site for predicting optimum SVC tip position.
Method: A prospective study of 3 percutaneous insertion sites (PICC, SCC and JC). Formula-based “LUM'S CVC MEASUREMENT GUIDE” was used to determine the catheter length.
Results: Overall, 97% (373) of the total 382 insertions were successfully placed with CVC tip in the distal SVC (SVC between carina and atrio-cava junction) location.
Conclusion: The “tailored fit” formula to individual patient height is a reliable tool to predict CVC length. Appropriate catheter length can greatly reduce the guesswork and possibility of complications related to tip malposition.Abstract
Contributor Notes
Philip Lum, RN, BS, CRNI is the (retired) assistant nurse manager in charge of the evening shift, for the Infusion Therapy Team at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. He has 21 years of extensive experience in central venous catheter insertion and management. Mr. Lum may be reached by e-mail at sclum@yahoo.com.