Central venous access is a medical procedure that involves placing a catheter into a large vein, typically in the neck, chest, or groin. This allows healthcare providers to administer medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream. It is often used for patients who require long-term treatment, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or receiving total parenteral nutrition. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions to minimize the risk of infection. Central venous access can also be used for monitoring central venous pressure, which helps assess a patient's fluid status and heart function. Common types of central venous catheters include PICC lines, tunneled catheters, and subclavian catheters.