Peripheral IVs involve inserting a catheter into a small distal blood vessel and are not sterile procedures, while central lines involve inserting a catheter into a large vessel near the heart and require sterile insertion due to long-term or frequent infusions of medications that could harm smaller veins. Central lines like PICC lines, ports, and subclavian lines also require careful care and maintenance to prevent infections and clots.

1. IV Therapy
AHM Unit 1

2. Learning Targets
• Identify the differences between peripheral
and central Ivs.
• Discuss indications for IV therapy and risks.

3. Peripheral IV
• This is a catheter inserted into a small, distal
blood vessel.
– It is not a sterile procedure.
– The size of the catheter varies and depends on the
needs of the patient.

5. Central Lines
• This is a catheter that is inserted into a large
vessel near the heart.
– It can be used for people who need frequent and
long term infusions or for medications that are
harmful to smaller veins.
– Insertion is a sterile procedure.
– Care and maintenance is very important to
prevent infection and clots in the line.
– PICC lines, Ports, Subclavian Lines are some types
of central lines.