Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICCs) offer numerous advantages, such as extended intravenous access, versatility for diverse treatments, easy maintenance, cost-effectiveness relative to other central venous access devices, and customizable lengths to meet individual patient requirements. Despite the meticulous insertion process, PICCs provide valuable benefits in terms of patient comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness for various clinical applications.
To insert a PICC line, a needle is placed beneath the skin into the arm vein, often guided by ultrasound or X-ray imaging. A small incision is made in the vein to accommodate a slender hollow catheter. The catheter is gently advanced through the vein towards the heart. Once in the desired location, an X-ray may confirm proper placement. In a hospital setting, a healthcare provider may use a heart-monitoring device to verify the catheter’s position, followed by a subsequent X-ray as needed.
The use of a Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) in healthcare can provide several benefits:
Long-term Intravenous Access: PICCs offer extended intravenous access for patients who require ongoing treatment, which can last for weeks, months, or even years. This reduces the need for frequent venipuncture.
Versatility: PICCs can be used for a wide range of clinical applications, including administering medications, fluids, blood products, parenteral nutrition, chemotherapy, and contrast media for imaging studies.
Easy Maintenance: Routine care and dressing changes for PICCs are typically less complex and can be performed by trained healthcare providers.
Cost-effectiveness: PICCs are generally less expensive than some surgically placed central venous access devices, such as tunneled catheters or implanted ports, making them a cost-effective option for long-term intravenous access.
Customized Lengths: PICCs come in various lengths, allowing for customization to the individual patient’s needs. Longer catheters can be advanced further into the central veins if necessary.
Easy to Monitor: Healthcare providers can easily monitor and assess the condition of the PICC, making it a reliable choice for long-term treatments.
It’s essential to note that while PICC lines offer many benefits, their insertion and care require proper training and monitoring to minimize complications. Patients with PICC lines should be closely observed for any signs of infection, clot formation, or other issues to ensure their safety and well-being.
Health Line’s single, dual, and triple lumen power PICC line kits are designed for nurses, doctors, and interventional radiologists of all experience levels. The SYNERGY CT PICC™ combines the ease and efficiency of PICC access with power injectability in multiple PICC line kit configurations to provide healthcare practitioners with an array of intravenous therapy options.
For more information about our SYNERGY CT PICC™, contact customer service today: https://hlic.net/contact/
References
Castiello, L. (2023, February 14) What are PICC lines and why do doctors use them. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/picc-line
Elli, S. (2022, September 09) How to insert a PICC: practical tips for the intensive care physician. About Science. https://journals.aboutscience.eu/index.php/aboutopen/article/view/2360/2586