Feasibility and Safety of Peripheral Intravenous Administration of Vasopressor Agents in Resource-limited Settings

Abstract

Vasopressors are conventionally administered through a central venous catheter (CVC) and not through a peripheral venous catheter (PVC) since the latter is believed to be associated with increased risk of extravasation. Placement of a CVC requires suitably trained personnel to be on hand, and in resource-limited settings, this requirement may delay placement. Because of this and in cases where suitably trained personnel are not immediately available, some clinicians may be prompted to utilise a PVC for infusing vasopressors. The objective of this study is to assess the feasibility and safety of vasopressors administered through a PVC.

Keywords

• vasopressors
• central venous catheter
• peripheral venous catheter
• hemodynamic emergencies