Question

After placement of a left subclavian central venous catheter (CVC), the nurse receives report of the x-ray findings that indicate the CVC tip is in the client's superior vena cava. Which action should the nurse implement?

Answer 1

The appropriate action for the nurse after confirming the CVC tip is in the superior vena cava is to verify its patency and monitor for any potential complications. Correct placement in the superior vena cava indicates the central venous catheter is ready for use.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked about the appropriate nursing action after receiving an x-ray report for a central venous catheter (CVC) placement. With the x-ray confirmation that the CVC tip is in the superior vena cava, the nurse would understand that the catheter is correctly placed. The superior vena cava is the major vein that returns blood to the heart from the upper part of the body, making it an ideal location for central venous access.



The superior vena cava receives blood from the right and left subclavian veins, internal jugular veins, and the brachiocephalic veins, draining most of the regions superior to the diaphragm. Since the tip of the CVC is ideally positioned in the superior vena cava, the nurse should ensure that the CVC functions correctly by verifying patency and assessing for any signs of complications such as infection, which may present with symptoms such as redness, warmth, and fever as in the case of Barbara, the patient described in the clinical focus.