Which of the following is a common indication for the placement of a CVAD?

• A. Short-term intravenous therapy
• B. Long-term intravenous therapy
• C. Hemodialysis
• D. Surgical interventions

Answer: (B)

The correct choice highlights long-term intravenous therapy as a common indication for the placement of a central venous access device (CVAD). CVADs are specifically designed to facilitate prolonged access to the venous system, making them ideal for patients who require extended treatment regimens, such as those receiving chemotherapy, long-term parenteral nutrition, or medications that are irritating to peripheral veins.

Using a CVAD in these situations helps to reduce the frequency of venipunctures, minimizes the risk of complications associated with repeated access to peripheral veins, and allows for the administration of large volumes of fluid or concentrated solutions that might otherwise be difficult to manage through standard peripheral IV lines.

In contrast, short-term intravenous therapy is typically managed with peripheral intravenous catheters, which are more suitable for limited duration treatments or less intensive therapies. Hemodialysis does use vascular access but typically involves specialized access points like fistulas or grafts. Surgical interventions may require different types of access, not specifically tied to the characteristics and purposes of CVADs.