PICC Lines

Introduction and Overview of PICC Lines

PICC line stands for peripherally inserted central catheter. PICC line is a long, thin, flexible, small and soft plastic tube similar to IV i.e. intravenous line which is used to insert into a peripheral vain. It allows the patients to receive fluids and medicines through the flexible and soft plastic tube. It can stay in the required position for the required period of time (picclinenursing.com). PICC line is placed into an arm's large vein by the nurse. Moreover, nurse directs the catheter up in the central vein which is located near the heart where flow of blood is fast. PICC line is stitched by the nurse in place and a sterile bandage is used to cover that area. For determining that whether the catheter is placed accurately or not, x-ray is done. Almost 1 hour is consumed for the placement of PICC lines. Painkiller is used while placing the PICC lies because patients feel discomfort at the time of this procedure (picclinenursing.com).

Uses of PICC lines

A PICC line can be inserted at home and it can stay in its inserted position for several months and weeks. Infection risk is low in using of PICC lines. PICC lines can be used for providing nutrition and fluids, medicines and blood transfusions to the patients. Blood test can also be accomplished successfully through PICC lines without the need of additional needle stick. By using PICC lines, there will be little chance of damage and irritation to patient's blood vessels and veins from various IV insertions, IV medicines and blood draws (California Pacific Medical Center, 2006).

Techniques for Removing PICC Lines

PICC lines are removed in the same way as peripheral catheter is removed. PICC lines are often discontinued when catheter complications are developed due to PICC lines such as damage, blocked ...