Are midline catheters approved VAD for HPN?

• A. Yes
• B. No, midline catheters are short-term VADs typically used for therapies lasting 2-4 weeks
• C. Only for pediatric patients
• D. They are approved for long-term use

Answer: (B)

Midline catheters are designed for short-term venous access, with tips in peripheral veins and typically used for therapies lasting about 2–4 weeks. Total parenteral nutrition requires long-term central venous access to safely administer hyperosmolar solutions and lipids and to minimize catheter-related complications. Because midlines do not reach the central circulation and are not intended for long-term use, they are not approved for home PN. For HPN, central venous access devices such as tunneled central catheters or implanted ports are used—not midlines.