Which management step is indicated for CVAD migration?

• A. Remove and replace CVAD
• B. Increase flush volume
• C. Apply local heat
• D. Leave in place and monitor

Answer: (A)

When a CVAD has migrated, the catheter tip has moved away from its intended venous location, which can compromise drug delivery, increase the risk of vessel injury, thrombosis, or embolism, and make the line unreliable for therapy. Removing the displaced device and placing a new CVAD in a different site (often with imaging guidance to verify the tip position) restores safe access and reduces the chance of serious complications. The other actions don’t address the underlying displacement: increasing flush volume won’t reposition a migrated catheter; applying local heat isn’t a corrective measure and could cause tissue harm; leaving it in place and monitoring leaves the patient at risk for catheter-related issues and failed therapy.