Retrospective Evaluation of Central Venous Catheters Applications in Pediatric Patients in Tertiary Hospital

Objective: Central venous catheters are mainly used for safe fluid infusion, total parenteral nutrition, and evaluation of hemodynamic parameters. Complications related to central venous access can occur during insertion, after insertion or during catheter maintenance. The aim of this study was to investigate the demographic data and the presence of catheter-related complications in pediatric patients with central venous catheters in our hospital. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed demographic data and the presence of catheter-related complications in pediatric patients with central venous catheters in our hospital from June 1, 2019, to February 28, 2023. Results: Patients who underwent central venous catheterisation in our hospital between June 2020 and February 2023 were included in the study. When the demographic data of the patients were evaluated, 141 (57.8%) of our patients were male and 103 (42.2%) were female, and there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. In the femoral group, catheterisation of the right femoral vein was preferred more than the left vein (72.2%-27.7%), whereas in the jugular-subclavian group, the right internal jugular vein was preferred more than other sites. The risk of infection was statistically higher in the femoral group compared to the subclavian group. Conclusion: In clinical practice, we think that the risk of complications can be reduced in central venous catheter applications in pediatric patients by experienced personnel by complying with asepsis/antisepsis conditions and using appropriate imaging devices.