Living with Your Central Venous Catheter for Hemodialysis
Living with Your Central Venous Catheter for HemodialysisPg 1TranscriptA central venous catheter for hemodialysis can be used for several weeks to months if it is keptclean, infection free and in good working order. To ensure it stays working safely, here are somethings to keep in mind.Do not get your catheter wet. Do not go swimming. A tub bath may be the best way to washwithout getting your catheter wet. If you are told you can shower with your CVC, cover it with aplastic wrap when showering.Do not touch your lumens or catheter. Never push or reposition the catheter. If you think it hasmoved or is coming out, call 911. Wear loose clothing that does not rub or pull on your line.If you notice a leak in your catheter, call 911 immediately.And let all of your healthcare providers, including your dentist, know you have a catheter beforeany appointments.Every day, check for signs of infection. If you notice redness, warmth, or tenderness around yourexit site, blood or drainage on your catheter dressing, a foul odor, or if you have a fever, contactyour healthcare provider right away.Call 911 immediately if you have: trouble breathing, a fast or irregular pulse, if you notice swellingin your head, neck, shoulder or arm, notice bleeding or a leak, feel chest pain, or think yourcatheter has come out. These can be signs of a serious complication. Get help right away.As you live with your catheter, it will become routine. Have confidence knowing that you are doingall you can to ensure your care is safe and complication-free.This program is for informational purposes only; for all health related issues please contact your healthcareprovider. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this videofor medical decision making. rn_10004_98 ©Milner-Fenwick, Inc.
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