What is the primary purpose of a central line when administering chemotherapy?

What is the primary purpose of a central line when administering chemotherapy?

• A. To provide easy access for multiple infusions and blood draws
• B. To minimize the risk of infection
• C. To improve patient comfort during treatment
• D. To reduce the overall cost of treatment

Answer: (A)

A central line is primarily used to provide easy access for multiple infusions and blood draws during the administration of chemotherapy. Unlike peripheral veins, which can become irritated or occluded from the repeated placement of needles, a central line allows for the administration of chemotherapy agents and other medications in a more efficient and effective manner. This is particularly important in chemotherapy because many of the drugs used can be vesicants, which can cause severe irritation or damage if they leak into surrounding tissue. The central line simplifies the process by enabling healthcare providers to deliver treatments over longer periods without having to repeatedly start new IV lines. It also allows blood samples to be drawn without additional needle sticks, which is beneficial for routine monitoring and managing the patient's treatment plan. Overall, the primary focus of using a central line is to ensure safe and effective delivery of chemotherapy and related interventions.

A central line is primarily used to provide easy access for multiple infusions and blood draws during the administration of chemotherapy. Unlike peripheral veins, which can become irritated or occluded from the repeated placement of needles, a central line allows for the administration of chemotherapy agents and other medications in a more efficient and effective manner. This is particularly important in chemotherapy because many of the drugs used can be vesicants, which can cause severe irritation or damage if they leak into surrounding tissue.

The central line simplifies the process by enabling healthcare providers to deliver treatments over longer periods without having to repeatedly start new IV lines. It also allows blood samples to be drawn without additional needle sticks, which is beneficial for routine monitoring and managing the patient's treatment plan. Overall, the primary focus of using a central line is to ensure safe and effective delivery of chemotherapy and related interventions.