Alternative Names peripherally inserted central line long-term intravenous catheter
Definition A PICC line is a long, soft, flexible tube, or catheter, that is inserted through a vein in the arm. The PICC catheter is designed to reach one of the larger veins located near the heart. It is longer and thinner than a regular intravenous catheter. A PICC line is frequently used in the home setting.
What is the information for this topic? When is a PICC line used?
A PICC line is used when a person needs intravenous medication, chemotherapy, or fluids for an extended period of time. It is also used when someone requires frequent blood sampling. The most common use for a PICC line is for giving antibiotics and chemotherapy through the veins.
How is the PICC line placed?
A doctor will place a PICC line in a person's arm. The procedure is done either in a hospital or in an outpatient facility. Using a needle or a guide wire, the doctor inserts the PICC line into a vein located in the arm. From there it is threaded into a larger vein near the heart. Once the catheter is in the correct position, the needle or guide wire is removed and the catheter is left in place.
The catheter site is covered with a sterile dressing and the tubing is securely taped to the person's skin. Plastic tubing is connected to the end of the catheter. A chest x-ray will be done after the PICC line is inserted to check that it is correctly placed.
How long can a PICC line stay in place?
The PICC catheter can generally remain in place from five days to several months. In some cases, the catheter can remain in place for up to a year.
What type of care does the PICC line require?
The dressing is changed once a week by a registered nurse. If the catheter is not being used continuously, the nurse will flush the line with saline solution to prevent it from clogging.
What precautions should be taken after a PICC line has been inserted?
The catheter site must be kept dry. The person may bathe or shower as long as the insertion site is protected with a water-resistant covering. The person's blood pressure should not be taken in the arm with the PICC line. The PICC line site should be checked every day for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pain.
What are the complications associated with a PICC line?
A PICC line is designed to stay in place for many months. However, the catheter can sometimes cause phlebitis, or vein irritation. If this occurs, a red streak may appear on the arm, and the doctor should be notified. Infection is also possible, but rare. The nurse or doctor should also be notified if the person develops a fever, chills, or a rash.
Author: Pam Rosenthal, RN, BSN, CCM Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
