The family of vascular access devices

Abstract

Dequate intravenous access is of paramount importance for patients in both acute and community care. Advances in catheter materials and techniques have resulted in a range of vascular access devices being available for use in clinical settings. This article will present an overview of vascular access devices and provide the most relevant information regarding the indications for the use of each device. For the purpose of this article the devices will be divided into short-term, intermediate-term or long-term devices.