Comprehensive Nursing Pharmacology Q 130
Central venous access devices (CVADs) are frequently utilized to administer chemotherapy. What is a distinct advantage of using the CVAD for chemotherapeutic agent administration?
A. CVADs are less expensive than peripheral IV.
B. Once-a-week administration is possible.
C. Caustic agents in small veins can be avoided.
D. The patient or his family can administer the drug at home.
Correct Answer: C. Caustic agents in small veins can be avoided.
Many chemotherapeutic drugs are vesicants (highly active corrosive materials that can produce tissue damage even in low concentrations). Extravasations of a vesicant can result in significant tissue necrosis. Administration into a large vein is optimal.
Option A: CVADs are more expensive than a peripheral IV. A nurse or doctor with special training puts this catheter in a large vein under the collarbone. Or it might go into a neck vein. The tube goes under the skin. The tip is usually in the upper chest. The health care team gives the patient a local anesthetic or conscious sedation when it is put in. Conscious sedation is medication to help them relax and feel sleepy.
Option B: Dosing depends on the drug. It also reduces the number of times a nurse or other team member needs to insert a needle in the vein. Health care team members call this a needle stick. This helps if the client has small or damaged veins. These veins are often harder to take samples from. A catheter can also help if the client needs blood tests often or are anxious about needles.
Option D: IV chemotherapeutic agents are not administered at home. They are given in an outpatient or clinic setting if not given during hospitalization. Some chemotherapy damages tissue if it is not injected directly into the vein. If the veins in the hands and forearms are small or difficult to put a needle into, the risk is higher that chemotherapy will be injected into tissue around the vein.