Administration of Gemzar Through Peripheral Veins

Peripheral Vein Selection and Care

• The American College of Physicians recommends selecting the smallest gauge catheter compatible with the infusion to reduce thrombophlebitis risk, ideally with catheter diameter one-third or less of vein diameter 1
• The Infusion Nurses Society suggests using polyurethane or silicone catheters rather than Teflon cannulas to minimize vein irritation 1
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise applying strict aseptic technique during catheter placement and maintenance 1
• The Society of Interventional Radiology recommends considering ultrasound guidance for optimal vein selection and catheter placement 1
• The Association for Vascular Access recommends monitoring the insertion site at each shift for signs of phlebitis including warmth, tenderness, erythema, or palpable venous cord 1

Central Venous Access Considerations

• The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition suggests considering midline catheters or peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) for therapy expected to exceed 6 days to reduce complications 1
• The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism recommends central venous access if peripheral veins are of poor quality, edematous, or if prolonged therapy is anticipated 2, 3