posted
Hi- I am new to this forum and also am scheduled to start an IV on the 22nd. I understand that it will be in for 4 weeks and would love any tips on how people managed with a PICC line
Posts: 32 | From Southcoast, MA | Registered: Dec 2008
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dmc
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5102
posted
Make sure to take your probiotics as well as keep hydrated...I drank water throughout the day.
Do not over use the arm the PICC is in.
I'm forgetting stuff. Others here will have more tips.
Best wishes.
Posts: 2675 | From ct, usa | Registered: Jan 2004
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posted
First of all, having the PICC line inserted is no big deal. Seems like it might be but it isn't.
The PICC line is a little bit of an adjustment depending on your lifestyle. You have use of your hand but need to limit what you do in terms of lifting (I think the doctor had told me nothing over 5lbs with PICC line arm). I had a 1 year old at the time which was the most challenging part for me. Of course it is a little bit of a production with bathing as you aren't supposed to get it wet. A little tape and plastic does the trick.
BE sure to have your liver enzymes checked on a weekly basis. I'm assuming you are going on Rocephin (ceftriaxone) and it can be rough on your liver and/or gallbladder. My liver enzymes went through the roof at week 4 but resolved once I stopped Rocephin.
It is a bit of an inconvenience but it is worth the aggravation!
Good luck and hopefully you'll be feeling better soon!
Posts: 561 | From mass | Registered: Jul 2007
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posted
I got my PICC line in this last Thursday. I am the biggest chicken when it comes to stuff like that and was completely amazed that I didn't feel it at all.
The infusing is a tedious task since I have to use a pump vs. pressurized ball but it's not that bad. Just takes me about an hour and a half and by the time it's done my eyeballs are floating because I have to pee so bad.
I've been doing IV Vancomycin for the past few days and it seems like it's helping out already. The benadryl I have to take before the dose is making me a bit sleepy though.
However, having doctors out of state and trying to set it up was a nightmare! I got denied home health services from my insurance company so we have to drive 40 miles one way to get the dressings changed, lab work, etc...
Overall, I feel it's an big inconvenience, but have to do it to get better.
Posts: 123 | From Georgia | Registered: Jul 2008
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sammy
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 13952
posted
Thank you all for sharing your experiences.
My doc keeps telling me to consider IV Rocephin but i've been hesitant. The potential complications of having a PICC line scare me. Also, the limited use of the arm would impact my work. And cost is a huge issue. But the continued progression of my neurological symptoms is scary too, really scary. So, here I am stuck in indecision...
And accidentally hijacking of your thread, sorry about that Cuffee. I just wanted to express my appreciation for those of you who have been able to give your advice here. Your experiences are helping me too.
Thanks you all! And Good luck Cuffee I hope that this will be a step towards renewed health in the new year.
Posts: 5237 | From here | Registered: Nov 2007
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bettyg
Unregistered
posted
best wishes and welcome!
Welcome; i'm so glad you found us!! You've come to the right place for education and support!
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please go to my newbie links, copy the entire thing, and then print this off....
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also in my table of contents, for FINANCIAL BURDENS, i believe there are a few more general comments there without links!! print that off too as it's newer info from members thru their own personal, tragic experiences. thoughts and prayers headed your way..
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I hope that this will be a step towards renewed health in the new year.
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otherwise, we will SOB, SCROLL ON BY, since we can't read to help you. If I see posts like this, I SOB them; to hard on me. 
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