A nurse is asked to prepare a client for placement of a central venous catheter that will be inserted into the right jugular vein. The nurse asks the client to
lie in a supine position with the head turned to the right.
sit in a high-Fowler’s position with the head turned to the left.
lie in the Trendelenburg position with the head turned to the left.
lie in a supine position with the head positioned straight.
Number 3 is correct.
Rationale: The client should be placed in the Trendelenburg position with the head turned left. This position will reduce the risk of an air embolism and allow the physician best access to the vein. High-Fowler’s places the patient at 90 degrees, Trendelenburg places the patient with the head lower than the body, and supine places the patient flat on the bed. These positions do not optimize central venous placement.
