Journal of vascular and interventional radiology : JVIR
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J Vasc Interv Radiol · Jun 2001
Comparative StudyPeripherally inserted central catheters: outcome as a function of the operator.
To determine the natural history of and outcome involved with peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) placed at a single institution and examine potential differences in the natural history of PICCs placed by interventional radiologists (IRs) versus registered nurses (RNs). ⋯ It is reasonable and cost-effective for trained RNs to place PICCs whenever feasible and refer complicated placements to IRS:
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J Vasc Interv Radiol · Jun 2001
Evaluation of various maneuvers for prevention of air embolism during central venous catheter placement.
This study is designed to evaluate the various physiologic maneuvers (Valsalva, humming, breath-hold) for the potential prevention of air embolism during central venous catheter placement. Central venous pressure measurements were prospectively obtained in 40 patients undergoing central venous catheter placement. The average central venous pressure at baseline was 3.275 mm Hg (range = -4 to 16, SD = 5.99). ⋯ The average increases in central venous pressure during breath hold, humming, and Valsalva were 2.85, 1.82, and 15.2 mm Hg, respectively. The difference between pressures during Valsalva and other maneuvers was statistically significant (P <.05). The conclusion is that the Valsalva maneuver is superior to breath-hold and humming for increasing central venous pressure during central venous catheter placement and, therefore, it is more likely to prevent air embolism in cooperative patients.