What do the initials P.I.C.C. stand for?
Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter
What is the difference between a PICC line and a Midline catheter?
Mainly length and the duration of the catheter dwell (length of time the catheter can typically stay in the vein). A Midline is a catheter that is from 3 to 8 inches in length. Upon insertion of a Midline catheter into a vein of the upper extremity; the tip of the Midline lies in the upper arm at or below the axillary vein level distal to the shoulder (see Infusion Nurses Society (INS) 2006 standard #42.3). Click here for vein anatomy image. A PICC line extends from the antecubital area or upper arm with the tip in the superior vena cava. Dwell time of a PICC is longer than the dwell time of the Midline.
What requiements must be met prior to beginning insertion of PICC Lines and/or Midline catheters?
The healthcare professional should be thoroughly trained in PICC and Midline catheter insertions and must meet their state's laws and licensing board's rules and regulations, as well as meet the individual's organizational policies and procedures. The Infusion Nurses Society (INS) Standards of Practice (year 2006) supports this in standard #42.1 which states: "The nurse shall demonstrate competency in and knowledge of catheter placement according to the state's Nurse Practice Act, rules and regulations promulgated by the state's Board of Nursing, organizational policies and procedures, and practice guidelines." - The Practice Criteria (C.) under this standard goes on to state: "The nurse placing a catheter should have a comprehensive understanding of anatomy and physiology, vein assessment techniques, and insertion techniques appropriate to the specific device."
read more
