Inadvertent Arterial Cannulation and Norepinephrine Infusion Due to a Misplaced Central Venous Catheter

Central venous catheter (CVC) insertion is one of the most common procedures done for critically ill patients. The subclavian vein is the particular preferred site. Misplacement of a CVC via the subclavian vein is frequent and can result in life-threatening complications. We aim to report a rare complication of misplaced CVC in the left subclavian vein and norepinephrine infusion that was associated with right upper limb ischemia. Immediate recognition and intervention are key to prevent further complications. The use of ultrasound has proven to reduce such complication, and the hospital implemented the use of ultrasound prior to any CVC placement.