The means by which medical professionals enter the vascular system to administer medications, fluids, or withdraw blood for diagnostic testing.
A short, thin tube inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the arm or hand, for short-term vascular access.
A longer tube inserted into a large vein, usually in the neck, chest, or groin, for extended vascular access, commonly used for administering medications or parenteral nutrition.
A catheter placed into an artery, often in the wrist or groin, to monitor blood pressure continuously or to collect arterial blood samples.
A specialized catheter inserted into a large vein, typically in the neck or chest, for use in hemodialysis to facilitate the exchange of blood through a dialysis machine.
A long catheter inserted into a peripheral vein and advanced until the tip reaches a larger vein near the heart, commonly used for long-term intravenous therapy.
The administration of fluids, medications, or blood products directly into a vein, often facilitated through vascular access devices.
An implantable port placed under the skin with a catheter attached to a major vein, providing long-term vascular access for treatments such as chemotherapy.
An infection that occurs when bacteria or other pathogens enter the bloodstream through a vascular access device, emphasizing the importance of infection prevention measures.
The process of using a sterile solution to clean and maintain the patency of vascular access devices, preventing blockages and infections.