Peripheral catheters are essential medical devices that are used to provide venous access for the administration of various medications, fluids, and blood products intravenously. These small, soft tubes are introduced into a peripheral vein using a needle, and can be either long or short in length.
Long catheters, which are between 6 to 15 cm in length, are often preferred for their longer duration, stable implantation, comfort for the patient, lower risk of phlebitis, and practical management. Short catheters, on the other hand, are usually 3 cm in length and are easy to use, comfortable for patients, and do not require routine replacement. They are typically recommended for therapies lasting up to 6 days.
Peripheral catheters have a number of advantages in hospital settings and clinical settings. They are frequently used for drug administration, chemotherapy, blood sampling, and administering blood products. They are especially useful for patients who are unable to take medications orally, and are used in approximately 80% of all patients in hospital settings and operating theaters.
Peripheral catheters are also essential for administering chemotherapy to cancer patients, as they allow for the delivery of chemicals and drugs with minimal discomfort and irritation. In addition, these catheters can be used for blood sampling for diagnostic purposes, as well as for the donation and storage of blood and other blood products.
It is important for clinicians to carefully consider the length, gauge size, and duration of peripheral catheters when using them to ensure the safety and effectiveness of their use. Overall, these devices play a vital role in the care and treatment of patients in hospital settings, providing a fast and effective means of delivering essential medications and fluids.
