picc
PICC Line
Instructed patient it is very important to prevent infection, which might require removal of the PICC line. The nurse will show you how to keep your supplies sterile, so no germs will enter the catheter and cause an infection.
Instructed patient Home care nurses will teach you and help you become comfortable with the procedures before you do them yourself. These are the special things that need to be done preventing infection, flushing the PICC line, giving the medicine, solving problems, knowing when and who to call for help.
Instructed patient if you has a problem trouble flushing the PICC, unable to give medicines or fluid into catheter Unclamp it (if clamp is present). Remove the kink, if the catheter is not kinked or clamped, do not force the solution into the tube. Call the home care nurse to report the problem
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.
Instructed patient what are some of the benefits of the care wear PICC line cover. The unique mesh window provides an
innovative way to allow patients and caretakers to view the site and check for infection and leakage. The innovative designs .
and colors allow for patients to get back to living their lives. Skilled nurse instructed care giver in medication management review and update medication schedule, specially new or changed medications (action side effects, adverse reactions) and complications.
Instructed patient 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 healthcare team may suggest light arm exercises. Avoid activities or exercises that require major use of your arm, such as sports, unless your healthcare provider says it's OK.
Instructed patient keep the PICC dry. The catheter and dressing must stay dry.
Instructed patient / caregiver inspect the site daily for any irregularities, such as swelling, redness, leakage or pain. If any irregularities or complications are noted, report them to a healthcare professional immediately.
Instructed patient / caregiver if the catheter breaks, whether bleeding does or does not occur, do not panic. Using sterile gauze, apply sufficient pressure at the site so it is tightly and well covered and immediately report this to the physician. Maintain pressure on the site at all times.
Instructed patient caregiver seek professional help immediately if any discharge, redness, swelling or pain around the catheter insertion site is noticed.