Learning About Your Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC)

What is a PICC?

It is a long, flexible, intravenous (IV) line. It is used to give fluids, nutrition, or medicine.

Where is a PICC inserted?

It is placed in a vein in your mid arm. 

How is a PICC inserted?

The care team will:

• Clean your arm with a special germ-killing soap.

• Put a needle into your vein.

• The needle will guide the catheter into your vein and is taken out after the catheter is in place.

The PICC placement will take around 1 hour. 

When can the PICC be used?

An x-ray or ultrasound picture will be taken to be sure the PICC is in the right place. Then it is ready to be used.

How long will the PICC be used?

It depends on what you and your doctor decide. It may be left in place for several months.

How do I care for my PICC at home?

You will need to:

• Flush your PICC to keep it from clotting. PICC lines need to be flushed at least 1 time each week.

• Change the dressing at least every 7 days, or when it gets soiled, loose, or wet.

A nurse will show you how to flush your PICC and arrange for you to have the dressing changed by a nurse.

You can take a bath or shower with your PICC line. Cover it by wrapping plastic wrap and tape around your arm. 

You should not need to restrict your activity. Talk to your care team more about this.