PICC Line Insertion Consent 🙋
🔍 Procedure
- Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) – a long IV line inserted under ultrasound in the upper arm, with tip placed in the superior vena cava via ECG or X‑ray guidance.
✅ Indications
- Long-term IV antibiotics, chemotherapy, or parenteral nutrition.
- Poor peripheral IV access or frequent blood sampling.
📌 Preparation
- Explain procedure and obtain informed consent from you.
- Performed by a specialist nurse at bedside or in Radiology.
- Ensure skin is clean and ultrasound targets basilic/brachial vein.
✅ Benefits
- Reliable long-term IV access avoiding repeated needle sticks.
- Compatible with daily life—no swimming but normal activities otherwise.
- Facilitates blood sampling and reduces peripheral vein irritation.
⚠️ Risks & Complications
- Infection or phlebitis (pain, redness, fever).
- Bleeding or thrombosis (swelling, pain).
- Insertion failure due to vein size/anatomy.
- Accidental arterial puncture.
- Temporary nerve injury near insertion site.
🔄 Alternatives
- Short-term peripheral cannula in arm.
- Other central venous access device placed under imaging guidance.
- Decline IV therapy—discussion with clinical team about options.
🛠️ Technique
- Ultrasound-guided vein selection, sterile prep, local anaesthetic.
- Catheter inserted and measured to sit in superior vena cava.
- Tip position checked using ECG or chest X‑ray.