I am having a PICC line put in next Tuesday and I just wanted to know what I should expect. Also, what precautions should I take when I have the PICC line in?
Thanks, LuLu
Posted by kai_ilima (Member # 12475) on :
They usually try to put it in your right arm, due to the vein is closer to your heart that is used. Sometimes it's placed below the elbow, but is easier to keep out of harms way if it is between your elbow and shoulder. I had mine from June thru December last year.
I work with the public, so of course everyone wants to grab that arm. An ace bandage worked really well for me. I sewed the fastners on one end so they wouldn't fall off.
will send a pm with more info
anessa
Posted by listenswithcare (Member # 10719) on :
Hi - I had a PICC put in my left arm in April. I had it done in a hospital and they did it in the Catheter Lab. It did not take long at all for the procedure to be done (1/2 hour). I spent more time getting there early to be ready for the doctor!
They let me choose which arm. I am right handed, so I choose the left arm. They inserted it about mid way between by elbow and shoulder on the inner left arm. The insertion did not hurt. They took images to make sure it was in the correct place in my body before. This was done right there while I was on the table and the doctor was there.
I'll send a PM with more information.
Posted by davidx (Member # 8326) on :
up
Posted by iceskater (Member # 8655) on :
I have had two picclines for several rounds of treatment with IV rocephin. Everyone has given you good advice and information. I would like to add that you need to keep it covered with a sleeve or type of plastic to keep the picc dressing from getting wet while bathing, You dont want it to get wet to attract bacteria to the site, for reasons of infection. I did fine with a piece of plastic around it for baths. Everyone is different what they preferred and did best for them. I also had a mesh covering for the daytime to keep it wrapped and not sticking to clothes my shirts.
Good luck- you will do just fine with your treatments. keep us posted on how you do. Skater
