On this page
- What is a PICC line?
- Why do you need a PICC line?
- Caring for your line
- Living with your line
- Contact the team
- Video guides
What is a PICC line?
A PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) line is a long thin flexible tube that is inserted into a vein in your upper arm. The line is pushed along the vein until its tip reaches one of the large veins just above your heart. A PICC line can stay in place for the duration of your treatment.
A PICC line may have one or two tubes (lumens) and these are used to deliver medication, nutrition and fluids directly into the blood stream. It can also be used for taking blood samples.
Why do you need a PICC line?
Lines are inserted for several reasons, these include:
- Small veins in your hands and arms which are difficult to access repeatedly
- The need for certain treatments over a long period of time eg antibiotics, TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) and chemotherapy
- The need for medication that may cause discomfort if given through a cannula in your lower arm
Caring for your line
Following your PICC line insertion you will have a bandage placed over the area, your dressing will be changed the next day. If you are an inpatient this will be done by your ward nurse. If you are an outpatient this will be done by your care team and an appointment is typically made in advance before you attend for your PICC placement.
Following your initial dressing, your line will be re-dressed and checked weekly.
To prevent your line from blocking, it must be flushed before and after each use.
If your line is not in use it can remain in place but it must be flushed and dressed once a week. If you are an inpatient this will be done by your ward nurse.
If you are an outpatient this will be done by your care team, community nurse or your GP practice nurse.
For oncology or haematology patients this can also be done on the Mobile Cancer Care Unit, speak to the Macmillan receptionist for more information on this.
If you experience any pain, discomfort or a shivering attack please inform your PICC line care provider or for out of hours please attend the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital.
Living with your line
You can lead a normal life with a PICC line but there are some things you need to be aware of:
Bathing: You may have a bath or shower as normal but you must keep your line dry. Please do not submerge your arm underwater when bathing. A waterproof cast cover (shower sleeve) can be purchased which will protect the area, these are available in the Friends of West Suffolk Hospital shop. For oncology patients, you are eligible to receive a free shower sleeve. A request for a prescription slip will be given to you following PICC insertion, you will need take the slip to your GP practice for them to provide you with a prescription for one.
Sports: Sports such as tennis and golf are discouraged as the PICC line may become misplaced. You must not go swimming.
Working: There are no restrictions on working with a PICC line in place provided that your doctor is happy for you to do so. Please avoid heavy lifting or manual work.
Driving: There is no reason why you cannot drive provided you are medically fit to do so.
Holidays: It is possible to holiday with a PICC line. Please talk to your doctor especially if planning a trip abroad. If staying in the UK it may be possible for you to attend a local hospital for flushing and dressing however if your partner or carer does this for you then this can continue wherever your destination. If travelling by air, always carry your equipment in your hand luggage.
Pets and children: Do not let them play with your PICC line. Keep it covered at all times. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pets to avoid any risk of infection.
Contact the team
We are here to help. Any questions not covered on this page please call the following:
Venous Access Team (VAT) on 01284 712990, between 8.00am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday.
Macmillan Day Unit on 01284 713040, between 8.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday.
Outpatient Parental Antibiotic Therapy (OPAT) on 01284 712783, between 8.00am and 6.00pm Monday to Friday.
In the event you require assistance out of hours please call West Suffolk Hospital 01284 73000 and ask to speak to the Emergency Department or Ambulatory Care.
Oncology, Haematology patients please contact the Acute Oncology Service out of hours on 07495 440 616.
Video guides
These videos provide guidance on how to look after your PICC line at home.