Remember that fluid flow through a tube is inversely proportional to the fourth power of the radius. Add this to factors such as kinking and the like, and you may actually deliver 4-10 times as much fluid through a short fat catheter compared to a long central line. In situations in which you need massive infusions immediately don't go to a central line first - go to a large bore peripheral site. If you are unable to cannulate a peripheral site you may then attempt a central line. For any erythrocyte preparation, use 18 ga or larger.
Central lines are acceptable for slower infusion, higher concentration applications.
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