Problems such as infection may make the access unusable. Then the catheter will have to be removed and a new one placed in another vein. Your nurse will show you how to care for your access to help it last.

Follow these tips:

• Wash your hands often.

• Try not to touch the catheter.

• Don't let anything (such as clothing) rub or pull on the catheter.

• Don't get your catheter wet.

Watching for Problems

Call your doctor or nurse right away if you have any of these problems:

• The skin around your access bleeds or oozes or becomes red or tender.

• You develop a fever over 101.0°F.

• The sutures become loose or the catheter falls out.

• Either arm becomes swollen.

Remember. . . A central vein access is often used only for a short time. Take good care of your access.

Important Numbers Doctor: Name _______________________________ Phone _______________________________ Nurse: Name _______________________________ Phone _______________________________