Advantages, disadvantages, and indications of PICCs in inpatients and outpatients

Venous access is an important part of treatment in every hospitalized patient. For inpatients, open-tip power PICC lines are probably the best choice, as they have a limited cost and reliably allow to measure central venous pressure, take blood draws, and deliver contrast infusion. Open-tip PICC lines, to ensure a long operating life, require the use of good-quality neutral pressure “needle-free” connectors. The nurse’s ability to use, dress, irrigate, and maintain this type of PICC is crucial. PICC lines may be placed at the bedside in the patient’s home without any additional risk. ECG-guided tip positioning minimizes the need for checking correct catheter placement by radiological control. PICC lines need weekly maintenance, which can be easily taught to the caregiver. Well-placed PICC lines are a safe way to deliver IV therapy and take blood draws. In homecare, one of the major risks is damage to the external part of a PICC line and occlusion due to an incorrectly stopped infusion: valved PICCs can adequately meet most homecare needs.