Complications Associated With Central Venous Access in the NSICU: PICC vs CVC

Complications Associated With Central Venous Access in the NSICU: PICC vs CVC

The goal of this study is to determine whether Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter or Centrally Inserted Venous Catheters have lower complication rates in the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit. After admission to the Neuroscience ICU and if they require central access, patients will be randomized to receive a PICC or CVC and complications (such as pneumothorax, deep venous thrombosis, infection, etc.) will be tracked and compared between the two interventions.

Inclusion Criteria:

Adult patients admitted to the NSICU, who require central access for the treatment of their illness.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current or recent (within 1 month) diagnosis of bacteremia
2. Current or recent (within 1 year with confirmed resolution by imaging) deep venous thrombosis
3. Existing central access
4. Non-English speaking
5. Requirement for emergent central access and unable to obtain consent in an emergency setting