OPAT Archives - Resource Library - Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust

What is a portacath? A portacath (port) is an implanted venous access device for people who need frequent intravenous (IV) antibiotics or other drugs. Having a port inserted requires an operation under general anaesthetic. Your child may have some bruising or swelling over the area, and some...

What is a central venous line? A central venous line (CVL) is a line which is tunnelled under the skin to a major vein. The line exit site is usually lower down on your child’s chest wall. A central venous line may also be called a Broviac line or a Hickman line. A CVL is… Continue Reading...

What is a cannula? A cannula is a short flexible tube which is threaded into a vein. Cannulas can be used to give intravenous (IV) antibiotics at home for 2 or 3 days and sometimes longer. Pain relief can be given for insertion of the cannula in the form of a cream applied to the… Continue...

What is a PICC line? A PICC line (peripherally inserted central catheter) is a long, thin flexible tube which is threaded into a vein usually in the arm until the tip sits in a large vein between the shoulder tip and the heart. Your child may need a PICC line if they need antibiotic...

What is a long line? If your child needs intravenous (IV) antibiotic treatment for a number of days then your medical or surgical team will discuss with you about putting in a long line for your child. A long line is a very thin, long, flexible tube which is threaded into a vein. Long lines…...

This resource aims to provide patients and families with information about the OPAT service (Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy) at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. What is OPAT? We are a small team of trained and experienced nurses, who can give antibiotics either inside your home or in the...