Having a PICC line on your upper arm is no fun, but you can still manage tasks you need to accomplish without complications. A PICC line should not hinder you from the normal activities you enjoy. It takes a lot of getting used to, but it is worth it.
It can feel scary to not know what is safe to do with a PICC line, but don’t let that keep you from living your life! Here are the main risks to watch out for:
1. avoid steamy bathroom changes
From a shower, the steam can create a wet environment under your dressing and have an effect on the adhesive. Remember to change your dressing, disinfection caps, securement device, or needleless connectors on a clean, flat surface. Also, one great way to protect your PICC line is to use PICC line covers. It is soft and comfortable to use, so there is no need to worry about your catheter.
2. do not touch
Do not touch the inner part of the needleless connector or catheter tip, even when you have gloves since they will no longer be disinfected when you put on the dressing, thus, touching your skin. By means of an alcohol pad, hold your PICC with your other hand near, but not affecting the needleless connector. Make use of PICC line sleeves to securely cover the line.
3. keep it dry
Don’t take a shower, go swimming, or do other things that could get the PICC line wet. Keep the PICC line covers as well as the catheter dry. Ask your family or health care provider to help you in the process. PICC line sleeves should always stay dry, no matter what. Discover the best possible way your PICC line won’t get wet while you are having a shower or a bath, and learn what works best for you. If you want to have more insights about this topic, you can check this list of most common questions when showering with a PICC answered.
4. keep it clear
After you have received IV nutrition, antibiotics, blood products, or chemotherapy, your PICC must always be flushed to avoid it from becoming clogged. A PICC must be flushed every 7 days when it is not being used.
5. don’t re-use the old caps
Loose or disconnected caps can invite the air or bacteria to enter the catheter. It may also leak blood or fluid near the loose cap. Always clean the end of the PICC with an antiseptic swab. Remember to replace it with a new, sterile cap, and disinfect every item before and after use. To prevent complications with your PICC line, do not use pointy or sharp objects to avoid damaging or cutting it. When changing the bandages over your midline catheter, do not use scissors. Avoid putting a hole in your catheter or cutting it as much as possible.
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6. keep away from sharp objects
To prevent complications with your PICC line, do not use pointy or sharp objects to avoid damaging or cutting it. When changing the bandages over your midline catheter, do not use scissors. Be extra careful to avoid putting a hole in your catheter.
7. avoid arm activity
Stay away from activities involving lots of arm movement. Heavy lifting over 5 to 10 pounds must be avoided as well. Do not carry heavy backpacks or bags at all. There is a great risk your PICC line would be dislocated once there is an upper arm movement.
Always bear in mind to take care of your PICC line with the proper guidelines of changing and flushing. Also, protect your catheter with a PICC line cover or PICC line sleeve. As much as possible, be comfortable wearing these so it should not get in the way of your normal activities, such as mild exercise, showering, school, or work.
5 comments
I am at Spencer Bishop in Kansas City and I cannot get them to clean my PICC line the nurses continue to do it differently some won’t even use alcohol at all they think they’re all experts I believe all they’re doing is killing me I was supposed to be out of here in six weeks time infected so bad that it’s been 11 weeks and I’m still in here and I can’t get a straight answer
Thank you!
You’re welcome!
My mother got an infection from a dirty PICC Line. She had leukemia, and the hospital sent her home with the PICC, and no instructions on how to keep it clean and sterile. My eldest sister were living with her at the time in order to care of her, but they didn’t understand how to avoid contaminating the line. They bathed her and tried to disinfect the area. She got an infection and died. My mother was getting better until this incident happened. She was so sick and miserable when she died in hospice. I was there and held her hand when she passed. Prior to this, she was getting better, up walking around with minimal help. Her sister lived with leukemia for 5 years, and we had every reason to believe my mother would done the same, but she only lived about a year after her diagnosis. Had she not got the infection, her life could have been extended.
I am so sorry to hear about your mother ❤ It’s so important that patients and their caregivers get this crucial information. We are working on outreach to doctors to make sure they have the education materials needed to keep patients safe. Thank you for sharing your story!
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