What should a nurse monitor for in a patient with a central venous catheter?

Monitoring for signs of infection and catheter patency is essential for a patient with a central venous catheter because these devices are directly placed into the central venous system and are at risk for complications. Catheter-related bloodstream infections can occur if pathogenic organisms enter the bloodstream via the catheter, potentially leading to severe systemic infections. Symptoms such as fever, chills, redness, swelling around the insertion site, and changes in vital signs may indicate an infection, necessitating immediate nursing evaluation and intervention.

Additionally, ensuring catheter patency is crucial since occlusion or blockage can lead to difficulties in administering medications or fluids, affecting the effectiveness of treatment. Routine assessment of blood return, flushing techniques, and checking for difficulty or resistance during infusions are part of maintaining catheter function and preventing complications. Regularly monitoring these factors supports patient safety and effective care management.