Central Line Inserted Central Catheter Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a central catheter inserted, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Bloodstream infection —occurs when bacteria enters the bloodstream through or around the central line
• Bleeding
• Collapsed lung
• Heart arrhythmias (changes in the way your heart beats)
• Nerve injury
• An air bubble or part of the catheter blocks a blood vessel, causing chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and rapid heart beat
• Blood clots in the vein or on the catheter, potentially blocking the vein

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Veins that are difficult to reach
• Blood clots
• Obesity
• Broken bones
• Infection
• Poor blood circulation
• Clotting or bleeding tendencies

Discuss these risks with your doctor before your central catheter is inserted.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Signs of infection—fever and chills, redness or swelling at the insertion site
• Pain at the insertion site
• Drainage or leakage from the catheter
• Trouble flushing or inserting fluids into the catheter
• Catheter loosens or falls out

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.