Do you use a tourniquet for PICC line?

A tourniquet is placed around the arm just below the shoulder. The vein for the PICC access is selected using ultrasound. Under sterile conditions, lidocaine 1%, a common local anesthetic, is injected at the skin surface.

What is the most common complication of PICC lines?

Infection and thrombosis are the two most common complications. Along with education and training, adoption of a central line bundle of safety practices is recommended to reduce the risk of infection associated with PICC placement.

What is the difference between a peripheral catheter and a PICC?

A peripherally inserted catheter that is commonly confused with a PICC is a midline catheter which is placed in a similar manner on the arm but whose tip terminates near the crease of the arm (Armpit) as opposed to a PICC.

What are some of the contraindications for PICC line insertion?

Contraindications

• Burns, trauma, skin infections, radiation, history of venous thrombosis at insertion site.
• Active bacteremia.
• Chronic renal failure, end-stage renal disease (veins should be preserved for potential dialysis catheter placement)
• Small diameter of arm veins (smaller than 3 mm to 4 mm)

What does Cvad stand for?

Central venous access devices (CVADs) or central venous catheters (CVCs) are devices that are inserted into the body through a vein to enable the administration of fluids, blood products, medication and other therapies to the bloodstream.

Can a PICC line damage the heart?

Upper-extremity PICCs are commonly used in hospitalized and ambulatory patients. Complications from PICC placement are typically rare and not life threatening; they include infection, hemorrhage, venous thrombosis, cardiac arrhythmia, arterial injury, and nerve injury.

Who inserts a PICC line?

PICC line insertion can be done by a nurse, doctor or other trained medical provider. If you’re staying in the hospital, the procedure might be done in your hospital room.

How do you do peripheral IV?

Hold the angiocatheter between the thumb and index finger of your dominant hand with the needle bevel facing up. Tell the patient that the needlestick is about to happen. Insert the needle in the skin at a shallow angle (10 to 30 degrees) about 1 to 2 cm distal to the point at which you intend to enter the vein.

What can you not do with a PICC line?

Having a PICC should not keep you from doing your normal activities, such as work, school, sexual activity, showering, and mild exercise. Avoid contact sports, such as football and soccer, while your PICC is in place. Ask your doctor or nurse about any activities before you start them.