PICC LINE CARE

WHAT IS A PICC LINE?

A PICC line is a type of long flexible tubing that is inserted into a vein in the arm and then threaded into a larger vein in the central part of the body. The end of the catheter that sticks out of the skin has a special cap. The PICC line can be used to get blood samples or to give medicines. PICC is the abbreviation for peripheral intravenous central catheter.

WHY DO I NEED A PICC LINE?

A PICC line may be used if you need intravenous (IV) medicine that may irritate the smaller veins usually used for IVs. A PICC line may also be used if you need many doses of IV medicines.

HOW IS THE PICC LINE PUT IN?

A PICC line is put in by your health care provider. First you will be given a local anesthetic so that the insertion of the line will not hurt. After the PICC line is put in, a transparent dressing will be put over the end of the catheter where it enters the skin. Then you will have an x-ray taken to make sure that the other end of the catheter is in the right place.

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