Is it always required to use a central venous port for irritant chemotherapy?

• A. Yes, always.
• B. No, some patients can receive via peripheral IV without incident.
• C. Only for elderly patients.
• D. Only when the patient requests.

Answer: (B)

Central venous access is not mandatory for irritant chemotherapy. The route is chosen based on the drug’s properties, the dose and duration of treatment, and the patient’s vein quality and access history. Some irritants can be given safely through a peripheral IV if the vein is healthy, the infusion is appropriate in rate and volume, and there’s careful monitoring for any signs of irritation or extravasation. Central access is more likely to be used when treatment is long-term or frequent, peripheral access is unreliable, or the drug has a higher risk of tissue injury even if diluted. So, it isn’t always required; peripheral IV administration can be acceptable in certain situations.