What is an occluded PICC line?

“Occlusions can be caused by a fibrin clot that blocks the lumen of the catheter. When that happens, the line can’t be used for medications or fluids; and worse, a fibrin clot can attract bacteria, making a clotted catheter a risk factor for a central line infection.”

What is a double lumen PICC line used for?

A single lumen PICC has one tubing and one cap on the end. A double lumen PICC has two separate tubings and two caps. A PICC is used to give medications, fluids and IV nutrition. If the PICC is big enough, it can be used to draw blood.

Is a tunneled PICC a central line?

A peripherally inserted central catheter, or PICC line (say “pick”), is a central venous catheter inserted into a vein in the arm rather than a vein in the neck or chest. Tunneled catheter. This type of catheter is surgically inserted into a vein in the neck or chest and passed under the skin.

How do you maintain a patency of a PICC line?

The PICC needs to be flushed once weekly with 10mls of 0.9% Sodium Chloride to maintain patency when not in use or after any infusion or bolus injection. There is no need to withdraw blood into the syringe prior to a routine flush with saline (RCN 2010).

Can PICC line occluded?

Catheter occlusion is one of the most common complications associated with PICC insertion, affecting 1 in every 8 PICCs placed8. Occlusion may have important consequences for patients including inability to use the device, delays in tests or treatment, and sometimes the need to remove and replace the device.

How do you fix a occluded PICC line?

Try flushing the catheter with 10ml 0.9% saline. If the fluids still refuse to free-flow, then instil Urokinase into the catheter and leave for 60 minutes. If this fails, repeat the Urokinase instillation but this time leave it in the line for several hours or overnight.

What is a triple lumen PICC line?

Indications. The Poly Per-Q-Cath*3 Triple Lumen PICC is indicated for short or long term peripheral access to the cen- tral venous system for intravenous therapy and blood sampling.

How many lumens is a PICC?

PICC lines can have 1-3 lumens, which allow medications to be attached and flow through the line. Additionally, blood draws for lab purposes can also be extracted from the line. The one pictured has two lumens, which have orange “caps” to help keep the line sterile.

What is the difference between tunneled and non-tunneled catheter?

There are two types of central venous catheters: tunneled and non-tunneled. Tunneled CVC’s are placed under the skin and meant to be used for a longer duration of time. Non-tunneled catheters are designed to be temporary and may be put into a large vein near your neck, chest, or groin.

What does tunneled catheter mean?

A tunneled catheter is a thin tube that is placed under the skin in a vein, allowing long-term access to the vein. It is commonly placed in the neck. It is most commonly placed in the neck (internal jugular) but may also be placed in the groin (femoral), liver (transhepatic), chest (subclavian) or back (translumbar).

How often do you Heparinize a PICC line?

You’ll need to flush your PICC line as often as directed by your healthcare provider. You may need to flush it after each use. If the PICC line is not in active use, you may need to flush it once a day. Or you may only need to flush it once a week.

How many mL do you flush a PICC line with?

Scrub the end of the PICC line with alcohol pad for 15 seconds. Twist the syringe onto the IV line. 4. Open clamp on the catheter and flush with 10 mL of Saline (sodium chloride).