Final answer:
A central venous catheter is used for collecting specimens or administering medications, including during chemotherapy. These catheters are vital for treatment but can pose risks of bloodstream infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of catheter commonly used to collect specimens or administer medications, including chemotherapy drugs, is a central venous catheter. These catheters can also be used for measuring pressures within the venous system, but this is typically only done during surgery or in intensive care settings due to the invasive nature of the procedure. Central venous catheters are implanted into a large vein, often in the neck, chest, or groin, to deliver treatment directly into the bloodstream.
Despite their benefits, central venous catheters can be associated with risks such as bloodstream infections, including those caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. These infections can result in complications and necessitate further treatment, such as a course of antibiotics.