A peripheral venous catheter is a slender, flexible tube inserted into a peripheral vein, commonly in the lower arm or back of the hand, allowing for direct access to the circulatory system. It serves as a crucial conduit for intravenous therapies, including fluids, medications, blood transfusions, and chemotherapy. While peripheral venous catheters offer advantages such as ease of insertion and patient mobility, they also pose risks such as infection and phlebitis. Despite these challenges, peripheral venous catheters remain indispensable in modern medicine, providing rapid and efficient delivery of essential treatments to patients in need across various healthcare settings.
