INTRODUCTION: To develop a simple method for safely placing central venous catheters (CVCs) outside the heart from the subclavian or internal jugular vein in compliance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and manufacturer guidelines. METHODS: Patients requiring CVCs were enrolled into this prospective trial. Central venous catheters were inserted into the subclavian or internal jugular vein from either the right or left side to a depth of 15 cm. Chest radiographs were obtained immediately after insertion of the catheter to check tip placement and to evaluate for mechanical complications. RESULTS: Operators successfully placed 201 of 210 (96%) CVCs outside the heart. Six of these required repositioning. Nine catheter tips were located in an intracardiac position. No cases of pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pericardial tamponade occurred. One case of delayed hydrothorax due to superior vena cava injury occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Using a 15-cm insertion depth via the internal jugular or subclavian vein results in safe catheter tip location in the majority of procedures consistent with FDA and manufacturer guidelines.