After insertion, the catheter is threaded to a central vein near the heart.
The PICC line can be used to deliver fluids and medications, draw blood, or performblood transfusions.
Having a PICC line reduces the need for repeated needle sticks.
Jodi Jacobson / Getty Images
This article explains when a PICC line is used and the process by which it is inserted and removed.
What Is a PICC Line Used For?
A PICC line can be used when a person needs IV therapy of any sort for a prolonged period.
This is more easily accomplished when a PICC line is placed and used to deliver these medications.
A PICC line is commonly used to give IV medications to treatcongestive heart failure, for example.
This may be true of older patients and people with specific chronic health conditions.
PICC Line Placement Procedure
The PICC line is a catheter with a guidewire inside.
This stiffens the tube so that it is easier to thread into a vein.
It can also be done on anoutpatient basisin advance of chemotherapy treatments.
The procedure takes about an hour and uses a numbing agent to avoid pain.
The removal of the line is also usually painless.
PICC Line Safety
PICC lines require regular maintenance toavoid infection.
In addition to routinedressing changes, the ports need to be regularly cleaned and flushed with sterile fluid.
It is also important to wash your hands before touching the ports or any part of the PICC line.
You will also need to cover the PICC sites with plastic wrap or a waterproof bandage whenever showering.
Generally, you’ll want to ensure good hygiene to keep the process as sterile as possible.
Then:
PICC Line Removal
The removal of a PICC line is quick and typically painless.
The stitches holding the line are removed, after which the line is gently pulled from the arm.
Once the PICC line is out, the end of the line is inspected.
A sterile bandage is placed over the wound and left for two or three days while the wound heals.
It is used to deliver fluids, medications, liquid nutrition, or blood directly to the bloodstream.
A PICC line can be inserted on an inpatient or outpatient basis by a nurse or physician’s assistant.
The procedure takes about an hour to perform.
To avoid pain, a numbing agent is injected near the insertion site.
The placement of the line is often directed by an ultrasound.
PICC lines pose certain health risks, including infection, blood clots, and abnormal heartbeat (arrhythmia).
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, the PICC line should not interfere with your routine.
You do need to avoid more strenuous activities, like playing sports.
It also means that your healthcare team recommended a PICC line as the best option for care.
The PICC line can be left in place for weeks to 18 months.
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