In which scenario would a central line be preferred over a peripheral line?

A central line is preferred over a peripheral line primarily for long-term medication administration or high-volume infusions due to its various benefits. Central lines can accommodate large volumes of fluid, which is crucial for patients requiring significant fluid resuscitation or those receiving medications that irritate the veins, such as certain chemotherapy drugs or hypertonic solutions. Additionally, central lines provide more durable access for patients needing prolonged intravenous therapy, spanning several days or weeks.

The central venous access routes are also closer to the heart, which can facilitate more rapid drug delivery and ensure that medications are distributed effectively throughout the body. In situations where consistent and sustained medication delivery is crucial, a central line is more advantageous than a peripheral line, which may limit infusion rates and duration due to the risk of infiltration and phlebitis.

In contrast, scenarios involving short-term antibiotics, simple dehydration, or when a patient is stable and can take oral medications indicate circumstances where less invasive and easily manageable options, like peripheral lines or oral medications, would typically suffice.