Navigating the veins: A comprehensive review of vasoactive agent infusion via peripheral routes.

Peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) are almost always present in patients in the intensive care unit. Still, they are seldom used to administer vesicant or irritant drugs, including vasoactive agents, due to concerns about extravasation and local tissue injury. However, emerging evidence indicates that PVCs are safe and effective for this purpose, offering distinct clinical advantages and obviating the need for more invasive central venous catheter insertion. Implementing a standardized protocol to ensure the appropriate size and placement of PVC, optimizing the dosage and duration of vasopressors, and establishing vigilant nursing monitoring can facilitate the safe administration of vasopressors via PVC, with substantial implications for the early management of shock, particularly in resource-constrained settings.