What type of catheter is a Hickman catheter considered?

A Hickman catheter is classified as a long-term catheter due to its design and intended use in medical settings. It is typically used for patients requiring frequent access to the venous system over an extended period, such as for chemotherapy, long-term IV medications, or frequent blood draws.

The Hickman catheter is tunneled under the skin and exits through a small incision, which helps minimize the risk of infection and allows for more stable placement than a non-tunneled catheter. Its construction is robust, accommodating the continuous use and associated demands of long-term therapy, which differentiates it from short-term catheters that are generally used for immediate or temporary needs.

This distinction is crucial in clinical practice, as the choice between long-term and short-term catheters significantly affects patient care, including considerations regarding durability, infection risks, and the duration of use necessary for various treatments.