Closed system catheterization assembly and related methods

Abstract

The invention concerns catheterization assemblies designed to reduce the risk of infection, transmission of bloodborne pathogens, loss of blood, and development of embolisms in a patient. Embodiments of the invention are directed to a catheterization assembly having a catheter hub with multiple access ports. In some embodiments, the catheter hub is permanently attached to a catheter and a valve. The catheter hub provides fluid communication between the valve and the catheter. The catheter hub may also be provided with a sealing member that provides access to a fluid passageway of the catheter hub but which prevents leakage of fluids from the catheter hub. In other embodiments, the catheter hub includes a passageway and an air vent for allowing air to pass out of the catheterization assembly.

1 . A method of catheterization comprising: 
 accessing a patient's peripheral vein with a catheterization device comprising: 
 a catheter tube non-removably attached to a catheter hub;  
 a valve non-removably attached to the catheter hub; and  
 a needle for puncturing the vein, and wherein a lumen of the needle fits inside the catheter tube;  
   puncturing the vein with the needle;    inserting the catheter tube into the vein; and    removing the needle from the catheterization device.    
   
   
       2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the catheter tube is a peripheral catheter.  
   
   
       3 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein the peripheral catheter is less than about 6 inches long.  
   
   
       4 . The method of  claim 3 , wherein the peripheral catheter is less than about 4 inches long.