Many of the current central venous access kits contain most of the equipment required for line placement. Some other items need to be obtained prior to initiating line placement. If not an emergency all procedures in the SICU should be performed under sterile conditions, with full gowning of the physician and draping of the patient. The nurse will also help set-up the necessary equipment for the line change. Inform them if there is any special material, instruments, or positioning required.
All procedures are to be entered on the computer immediately after they have been completed.
The entry of this data is monitored regularly. Failure to enter these procedures in the computer will be reflected in your evaluation at the end of the rotation. During line placements or changes the patient is usually fully covered and cannot be directly observed. Strict attention to the hemodynamic status and respiratory status must be maintained during the procedure. In the event of an adverse event stop the procedure, assess the patient, and call for assistance.