What are the three major sites for central line placement?

The three major sites for central line placement are the internal jugular vein, the subclavian vein, and the femoral vein. These locations are preferred due to their anatomy and accessibility, which allows for effective catheter placement.

The internal jugular vein is located in the neck and is easily accessible; it provides a straight path to the right atrium of the heart. The subclavian vein, located beneath the collarbone, also offers a direct route with minimal complications, making it a popular choice for central access. Lastly, the femoral vein, situated in the groin, is used when other sites are not accessible, and is particularly useful in emergency settings or trauma situations.

The other options list veins that either are not typically used for central line placement or do not represent the major sites for such procedures. For instance, the radial vein is generally associated with peripheral IV placement rather than central lines, while the occipital vein is not a common site for this practice. The external jugular vein, although it can be used in some cases, is not as widely recognized or preferred for central line placement compared to the internal jugular and subclavian veins.