Intravascular catheter complications in the neonatal intensive care unit

Central and peripheral intravascular catheters serve many important functions for sick neonates; however, the use of these catheters also carries significant risk of permanent disability or even death. This article examines the risks of catheter-related thromboembolic events, vasospasm, and infection. The article also looks at risks that are specific to umbilical artery catheters, umbilical vein catheters, peripherally inserted central catheters, peripheral artery catheters, and peripheral intravenous catheters. Specific recommendations are made to reduce the possibility of an intravascular catheter-related complication.