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What type of IV LINE is best
IV PICC LINES, CVC, MIDLINES AND PORTS
Types of IV Lines: What You Need to Know
If you're navigating chronic illness, pregnancy complications, or severe dehydration, knowing your IV line options can save your life. Here's a breakdown of the most common types of IV access used for hydration, medication, and nutrition:
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1. Peripheral IV (PIV)
* Short-term use
* Inserted into veins in the hand or arm
* Common in hospitals and ERs
* Not ideal for long-term or harsh medications
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2. Midline Catheter
* Medium-term use (1–4 weeks)
* Inserted into a larger vein in the upper arm
* Stops before reaching the heart
* Safer than a PICC but can’t handle TPN or strong meds
* Needs to be flushed regularly to prevent clots
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3. PICC Line (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter)
* Long-term use (weeks to months)
* Inserted in the upper arm but goes all the way to a vein near your heart
* Used for IV hydration, antibiotics, nutrition (TPN), and more
* Higher infection risk, must be kept sterile and flushed daily
* Often used at home with home health support
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4. CVC (Central Venous Catheter)
* Inserted into a large vein in the neck, chest, or groin
* Often used in ICU or hospital settings for emergencies
* Allows rapid delivery of medication or fluids
* Short-term but very powerful access
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5. Port-a-Cath (Implanted Port)
* Long-term use (months to years)
* Surgically placed under the skin (usually chest)
* Accessed with a needle when needed
* Lowest daily maintenance once healed
* Ideal for patients needing ongoing treatments like chemo or long-term nutrition
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Why This Matters:
Not all IV lines are created equal. The wrong choice—or lack of proper care—can lead to infections, clots, or life-threatening complications. Understanding the difference helps you advocate for the safest and most effective option based on your condition.
If you’re managing HG, CVS, mast cell issues, or another chronic illness—you deserve to know your options.
For more in-depth education, videos, and safety tips, check out my upcoming course IV Line Life: How to Safely Manage PICC, Midlines, and Home Infusions.
FEEDING TUBES
Different types of feeding tubes
Feeding Tubes: What You Need to Know
When eating and drinking aren’t possible due to severe illness like Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS), gastroparesis, or other chronic conditions, feeding tubes can be life-saving. They’re not a last resort—they’re medical nutrition support that helps keep your body alive when nothing else works.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of feeding tubes used:
1. NG Tube (Nasogastric Tube)
Inserted through the nose and ends in the stomach
Used short-term for liquid nutrition or medications
Easy to place but uncomfortable and can trigger gagging or vomiting
Must be checked often to ensure correct placement
2. NJ Tube (Nasojejunal Tube)
Inserted through the nose, past the stomach, into the small intestine
Used when the stomach isn’t tolerating feeds (like with gastroparesis or severe nausea)
Reduces risk of vomiting because formula bypasses the stomach
Requires X-ray confirmation for placement
3. G-Tube (Gastrostomy Tube)
Surgically placed through the abdomen directly into the stomach
Used for long-term feeding support
Allows for venting gas and administering medication directly
Common in patients who can’t eat by mouth but have a functioning stomach
4. GJ Tube (Gastrojejunostomy Tube)
Placed into the stomach with a separate port that extends into the small intestine
Used when feeding into the stomach causes vomiting or reflux
Combines stomach venting with small intestine feeding
Requires regular maintenance and skilled placement
5. J-Tube (Jejunostomy Tube)
Surgically inserted directly into the small intestine
Bypasses the stomach completely
Used for patients with severe reflux, vomiting, or stomach paralysis
Requires continuous feeding and careful monitoring
Why Feeding Tubes Matter
Feeding tubes save lives. They prevent malnutrition, allow medications to be absorbed properly, and give the body a chance to heal. They are often misunderstood—but for many of us, they are the reason we’re still here.
If you're vomiting everything you eat, losing weight rapidly, or unable to keep down water—ask your doctor about nutritional support. Early intervention is key.
For more education on feeding tubes, home care tips, emotional survival, and what to expect, check out my upcoming course and resources through HGBDATA. You're not alone—and you deserve proper care.