What is tunneled catheter placement?

After your child's tunneled catheter procedure: When to call

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
• Your child has severe trouble breathing.
• Your child has chest pain, is short of breath, or coughs up blood.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.
• Your child has blood draining from the area near the catheter.
• Your child has swelling in the face, chest, neck, or arm on the side where the catheter is.
• Your child has signs of a blood clot, such as bulging veins near the catheter.
• Your child's catheter is leaking, cracked, or clogged.
• You feel resistance when you inject medicine or fluids into the catheter.
• Your child's catheter is out of place. This may happen after severe coughing or vomiting or if you pull on the catheter.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You or your child has any concerns about the catheter.