In PICU, children will have a line inserted into a vein to administer fluids and medications. Other names for lines are drip, cannula, IV, straw, access.
Peripheral line
A peripheral line also called a drip or cannula is a small plastic tube that sits in a vein. It is used to administer fluids, antibiotics and other medications. A peripheral line might be inserted into the hand, inner elbow or foot.
Fluids
There are many types of fluids a child will receive in PICU. The type of fluid will depend on the child’s age, weight and illness. These fluids may run continuously whilst the child is sick, but when they are better, the aim is for the child to eat and drink for themselves.
Medications
A variety of medications will be administered into a peripheral line throughout the day. Antibiotics will be administered regularly and slowly into the child’s vein to treat the child’s illness. Pain medication may also be administered into a peripheral line many times a day to keep the child comfortable and pain free.
Arterial Line
An arterial line also called an Art line is similar to a drip but sits in an artery. An arterial line is used to monitor the child’s blood pressure continuously and to take blood samples from. An arterial line might be inserted into a child’s wrist or groin.
Central Line
A central line, also called a CVC or CVAD, is a larger drip that is inserted into a larger vein near the heart. One central line can have up to three lines attached at one time. These lines are often referred to as lumens. Each lumen allows staff to administer multiple fluids and medications at the same time. A central line might be inserted into a child’s neck, chest or groin.
Fluids
Just like a peripheral line, fluid can be administered into a central line.
Medications
Just like a peripheral line, mediations can be administered into a central line. Because a central line is inserted into a larger vein, stronger and more concentrated medications can be administered through it.
Inotropes
Inotropes are a group of medications that support your child’s blood pressure or increase their heart rate, or both. Inotropes include medications such as Adrenaline and Noradrenaline. These are usually given as a continuous infusion into a large vein.