Understanding Picc Lines for Blood Draws
A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line is a type of intravenous (IV) line that is inserted into a vein in the arm and threaded through to the large veins near the heart. PICC lines are also sometimes called peripherally inserted central venous catheters. They are used to give medications, nutrients, blood transfusions or to withdraw blood for laboratory tests.
PICC lines are an ideal solution for people who need to receive IV medications over a long period of time, such as people with cancer, HIV, or chronic illnesses. They are also preferred for those who need to receive multiple medications or intravenous nutrition, as well as for people who are at risk of developing an infection, such as the elderly and those with a weakened immune system.
The Insertion Procedure for Picc Lines
The insertion procedure for PICC lines is typically done in a hospital, clinic or doctor’s office. The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour, and is usually done under local anesthesia. Before the procedure, the patient is given a sedative or anesthetic to reduce discomfort.
The first step is to locate the vein that will be used to insert the PICC line. This is usually done using ultrasound technology, which helps the doctor see the exact location of the vein. Next, the doctor will insert a needle through the skin into the vein. The doctor then uses a hollow needle to thread the PICC line through the vein and up to the large vein near the heart. The line is secured in place with sutures.
Using the Picc Line for Blood Draws
Once the PICC line is inserted and secured, it is ready for use. When a doctor needs to draw blood from the patient, they will attach a needle to the end of the PICC line and draw the blood. The procedure is typically done in a hospital or clinic and does not take much time.
In some cases, the doctor may need to take multiple samples of blood from the patient. In these cases, the doctor may use a special device called an “extension set” to draw the blood. This device is placed between the PICC line and the needle, and allows the doctor to draw multiple samples without having to reinsert the needle each time.
Caring for a Picc Line
Once the PICC line has been inserted, it is important to take good care of it. The area around the line should be kept clean and dry, and the patient should avoid getting the line wet. In addition, the patient should avoid bumping or tugging on the line, as this could cause it to become dislodged.
It is also important to watch for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge around the line. If any of these signs appear, the patient should contact their doctor right away. Finally, the patient must follow their doctor’s instructions regarding the frequency of blood draws and any other care instructions.
Removing a Picc Line
Once the PICC line is no longer needed, it should be removed. This procedure is typically done in a hospital or clinic and does not take very long. The doctor will numb the area around the line and then carefully remove the line. The area is then cleaned and bandaged.
After the line is removed, the patient should monitor the area for any signs of infection. If any signs appear, the patient should contact their doctor right away. In most cases, the area will heal completely within a few weeks.
Conclusion
PICC lines are an ideal solution for people who need to receive IV medications or nutrition over a long period of time. The insertion procedure is usually done in a hospital, clinic or doctor’s office, and the patient is given a sedative or anesthetic to reduce discomfort. Once the PICC line is inserted, it can be used for blood draws or to infuse medications and nutrition. It is important to take good care of the PICC line, and to watch for any signs of infection. When the PICC line is no longer needed, it should be removed by a doctor.
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