The Hickman catheter is inserted through which vein?

The Hickman catheter is inserted through which vein?

• A. Cephalic or internal jugular vein
• B. Femoral vein only
• C. Great saphenous vein
• D. Subclavian artery

Answer: (A)

A Hickman catheter is a long-term central venous access device, so it must be placed through a central vein that provides direct access to the upper venous system. The cephalic vein or the internal jugular vein are both large veins in the upper body that drain toward the central veins, allowing the catheter tip to sit in the superior vena cava or right atrium for reliable infusion. The femoral vein is in the leg and carries higher infection risk and less ideal for long-term access. The great saphenous vein is a superficial leg vein and does not provide central access. The subclavian artery is not a vein and would be incorrect. Therefore, entering through the cephalic or internal jugular vein is the appropriate route.

A Hickman catheter is a long-term central venous access device, so it must be placed through a central vein that provides direct access to the upper venous system. The cephalic vein or the internal jugular vein are both large veins in the upper body that drain toward the central veins, allowing the catheter tip to sit in the superior vena cava or right atrium for reliable infusion. The femoral vein is in the leg and carries higher infection risk and less ideal for long-term access. The great saphenous vein is a superficial leg vein and does not provide central access. The subclavian artery is not a vein and would be incorrect. Therefore, entering through the cephalic or internal jugular vein is the appropriate route.