Which vascular access device should not be used for home parenteral nutrition?

Which vascular access device should not be used for home parenteral nutrition?

• A. Hickman catheter
• B. Peripherally-inserted central catheter (PICC)
• C. Midline catheter
• D. Implanted port

Answer: (C)

Delivering home parenteral nutrition requires central venous access because PN solutions are highly concentrated and can irritate peripheral veins. A midline catheter is a peripheral venous device that terminates in veins of the upper arm and does not reach the central venous system. It is intended for short-term IV therapy, not long-term PN. Without central access, the risk of vein irritation, phlebitis, and inadvertent extravasation from hyperosmolar PN is much higher, and the catheter’s dwell time is too limited for ongoing nutrition support. Central devices like a Hickman catheter, an implanted port, or a PICC line provide true central venous access suitable for long-term PN and are appropriate for home use when managed with proper care and infection control.

Delivering home parenteral nutrition requires central venous access because PN solutions are highly concentrated and can irritate peripheral veins. A midline catheter is a peripheral venous device that terminates in veins of the upper arm and does not reach the central venous system. It is intended for short-term IV therapy, not long-term PN. Without central access, the risk of vein irritation, phlebitis, and inadvertent extravasation from hyperosmolar PN is much higher, and the catheter’s dwell time is too limited for ongoing nutrition support. Central devices like a Hickman catheter, an implanted port, or a PICC line provide true central venous access suitable for long-term PN and are appropriate for home use when managed with proper care and infection control.