Intravenous access in infants and children

At times, nothing is more difficult, time consuming or frustrating than obtaining vascular access in the pediatric patient. Today, technologic improvements in catheter design and imaging techniques have significantly facilitated line placement and increased the available options for vascular access. All clinicians involved in the care of pediatric patients should have knowledge of the various methods available for venous access, as well as their relative indications, advantages and disadvantages. This article discusses various sites used for venous access in the pediatric patient, as well as techniques that may be used by the pediatrician and those that require surgical consultation.