Left arm thrombosis

[Zenger Rhonda]

At first I was concerned about an increased risk of thrombosis with using the left arm because of the additional length of the catheter which means more vessel irritation ect. However, upon reviewing x-rays, the left arm approach catheter placement looks “very funny” a lot of sharp angles and turns. If we have to use the left arm then that is okay. I just don’t want it to become the first choice. And if it is the first choice, then to document the rationale as to why the left arm was chosen for placement. Such as, if the patient has had a recent right mastectomy, major trauma to right shoulder, etc. I guess I am not worried about thrombosis in other vessels on the left arm, just the basilic vein. Should I be?   Rhonda Zenger, MSN, RN Advanced IV Services Mercy Regional Health Center Manhattan, Kansas 785-323-6835 [EMAIL PROTECTED]