When venous access is required for few weeks or few months (medium term), a peripheral access may be indicated, provided that the device is not required for repeated daily blood sampling or for infusion of solutions that are not compatible with the peripheral route. An example of indication for peripheral venous access may be a patient in palliative care in which there is indication only to hydration and administration of analgesics; or a patient who requests periodic transfusions of blood or blood products (immunoglobulins, coagulation factors, etc.) at home; or a patient in OPAT (outpatient antimicrobial therapy) who receives antibiotics compatible with the peripheral route.
In all other cases, if there is an indication for repeated daily blood sampling or for infusion of solutions not compatible with the peripheral route (chemotherapy, highly hyperosmolar parenteral nutrition, antibiotics irritating the endothelium, etc.) it will be appropriate to insert a central venous catheter.