Skilled nurse remove PICC,line per doctor order, the catheter tip should also be examined and there is no breakage at the end, no S/S of infections noted. Skilled nurse applied at the insertion site with sterile gauze to prevent bleeding which and when the bleeding stops, the gauze is removed and a sterile dressing is applied. Instructed patient the dressing should remain for approximately 24 hours. After this time, the site should be assessed and a new dressing applied if needed. Patient understand the instructions given.
Instructed patient check your skin where the catheter enters it every day. Look for signs of infection and other problems. Instructed patient call your health care provider if you: Have bleeding, redness or swelling at the PICC line or Midline site, have pain near the site or in your arm, have signs of infection (fever, chills), are short of breath.
Instructed patient always clean your hands before and after you come in contact with any part of the PICC line. Your caregivers, family members, and any visitors should use good hand hygiene, too. Instructed patient keep the PICC dry. The catheter and dressing must stay dry.
Instructed patient assess PICC line site, line note any leakage from catheter or around the site. Note any redness, drainage or pain at the site.
Instructed patient maintaining a clean and dry dressing is paramount to a continued well functioning PICC line.
Instructed patient / caregiver the arm with the PICC line must not be babied. Normal use, in fact increases blood circulation in that arm.
Instructed patient / caregiver inspect the site daily for any irregularities, such as swelling, redness, leakage or pain. If any irregularities or complications are noted, report them to a healthcare professional immediately.
Instructed patient / caregiver if the catheter breaks, whether bleeding does or does not occur, do not panic. Using sterile gauze, apply sufficient pressure at the site so it is tightly and well covered and immediately report this to the physician. Maintain pressure on the site at all times.
Instructed patient / caregiver for minimizing problems associated with PICC lines, guidelines include: Always wash hands before touching the PICC line, do not allow any sharp objects near the line, do not clean the skin near the line with any acetone containing cleanser.
Instructed patient / caregiver keep the insertion site and dressing dry, do not go swimming as swimming pools not only harbor bacteria but a wet dressing is an ideal medium for bacterial growth, do not allow pets or young children to play with the PICC line.