Instructed patient The arm with the PICC is at risk for developing blood clots (thrombosis). This is a serious complication. To help prevent it: As much as possible, use the arm with the PICC in it for normal daily activities. Lack of movement can lead to blood clots, so it’s important to move your arm as you normally would. Your health care team may suggest light arm exercises.
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 blood pressure readings in the arm cannulated with the PICC should be avoided.
Instructed patient catheters that present resistance to flushing and aspiration may be partially or completely occluded. Do not flush against resistance. If the lumen will neither flush nor aspirate and it has been determined that the catheter is occluded with blood, a declotting procedure per nurse may be appropriate.
Instructed patient the arm with the PICC is at risk for developing blood clots (thrombosis). This is a serious complication. To help prevent it avoid any activities that cause discomfort in your arm. Talk to your health care team if you have concerns about pain or range of motion.Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds with the affected arm. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps keep clots from forming.