PICC Lines: Preventing Complications Using Best Practice

A peripherally inserted central catheter, or PICC line, is a central venous catheter placed in a peripheral vein located in the upper arm and then threaded into the superior vena cava where it ends. Long term venous access for medication administration, laboratory testing, blood transfusions, and total parenteral nutrition are just a few reasons why PICC line placement is essential for patient care. As PICC lines have become more prevalent in the healthcare field, complications associated with them have become illuminated. Common complications associated with PICC lines include infection, occlusion, embolism, dislodgment, bleeding associated with dressing changes, issues with skin integrity, etc. Due to the increase in the use of PICC lines, complications are of increased concern. The research team contacted Spencer Hospital and obtained their current central line policy. The hospital wished for the team to look into their current policy and make changes necessary to provide a PICC specific policy that is clear and consistent. The research team then dove into a plethora of articles regarding PICC line maintenance. This team found ten articles, in which they came up with interventions related to maintenance and care regarding PICC line care. Based on these findings the researchers reviewed Spencer Hospital’s policy, as well as changes we found beneficial and encouraged Spencer Hospital to incorporate these interventions into their PICC specific policy. The team hopes this policy will be implemented at Spencer Hospital to promote the best care regarding the maintenance of PICC lines