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About a midline
A midline is a fine and flexible plastic tube up to 20cm long that we insert into a vein in your arm.
We use the midline to give drugs and fluids directly into your bloodstream and to take blood tests.
The midline can stay in place for up to 6 weeks or until the end of therapy.
A doctor or nurse with special expertise in this procedure will insert your midline. They will do this using a local anaesthetic.
The midline may be stitched in place or held in place by a clip. We use a transparent, plastic dressing to stick the midline to your skin and we will cover the whole area with a tubigrip bandage.
Looking after your midline at home
To look after your midline at home, do the following.
- keep the dressing clean and dry
- try not to touch the dressing
- protect the midline from knocks.
Take extra care when dressing and undressing to avoid catching the midline on your clothes. It will help if you wear clothes with loose fitting sleeves.
Bathing and showering
Use a ‘shower sleeve’ to keep your midline as clean and dry as possible when showering. You can buy a shower sleeve from most pharmacies.
Do not dip your midline in bathwater.
What happens during your appointment with the nurse
Your nurse will wipe the midline connectors with an alcohol swab before and after each use. They will also flush the line with saline after each use to prevent blockages.
They will change the dressing on your midline at least every week and check your skin where the midline has been inserted.
Risks and side effects
Midlines are proven to be safe and effective, but there are some risks.
Keep an eye on your midline site. Call your nurse and ask for advice if you notice any of the following reactions.
- Allergic reaction to the dressing. The area around the midline may be hot, red, or itchy and/or your skin may blister.
- Thrombosis (blood clot) can occur in the vein around or near the midline. Symptoms include pain in your arm, shoulder or chest and a change in the colour of your arm. Thrombosis is usually cleared by the body over the next 6 months.
- Bruising. This can develop after midline insertion and may last for up to 4 weeks.
Go to your nearest Emergency Department (A&E) if you notice:
Infection. The area around the midline may become hot and red, and there may be pus. You may have a high temperature and/or flu like symptoms.
Swelling of the limb around or near the midline.
If your midline falls out
This is unlikely to happen, but if it does, follow these instructions.
- Apply a clean piece of gauze, tissue or cotton wool, and press firmly for a few minutes until any bleeding stops.
- Use a plaster to cover the area where the midline is inserted.
Important
If your midline falls out and the bleeding does not stop, continue to apply firm pressure, and raise your arm above your chest.
Go to your nearest Emergency Department (A&E) or minor injuries unit.
What happens when we remove the midline
A nurse will remove the midline after your final treatment. This is a simple procedure and it is not uncomfortable.
Your nurse will put a dry, sterile dressing over the skin. Leave the dressing in place for 24 hours.
Midline Catheter by Bruce Blaus is licensed under CC by SA 4.0
Contact information
Contact the community nurse who delivers your treatment if you have questions or concerns.