Understanding percutaneous and subcutaneous central venous access devices.

Central venous access devices (CVADs) are commonly used in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Physician assistants must understand CVADs' indications, intended uses, functional lifespans, complications, and indications for removal. This article describes common CVADs used for administering medications, nutrition, and chemotherapy, and for hemodialysis and venous access for laboratory sampling.