PICC line dressing change with StatLock
A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is a long, thin tube that goes into your body through a vein in your upper arm. The end of this catheter goes into a large vein near your heart. Show At home you will need to change the dressing that protects the catheter site. A nurse or technician will show you how to change the dressing. Use the information below to help remind you of the steps. What to Expect at HomeThe PICC carries nutrients and medicines into your body. It may also be used to draw blood when you need to have blood tests. Dressing ChangesA dressing is a special bandage that blocks germs and keeps your catheter site dry and clean. You should change the dressing about once a week. You need to change it sooner if it becomes loose or gets wet or dirty. Since a PICC is placed in one of your arms and you need two hands to change the dressing, it is best to have someone help you with the dressing change. Your nurse will teach you how your dressing should be changed. Have the person who helps you also watch and listen to the nurse's or technician's instructions. Your doctor has given you a prescription for the supplies you need. You can buy these items at a medical supply store. It helps to know the name of your catheter and what company makes it. Write this information down and keep it handy. Changing Your DressingsThe information below outlines the steps for changing your dressing. Follow any additional instructions your health care provider gives you. To change the dressing, you need:
If you have been prescribed a dressing change kit, follow the instructions for using the supplies in your kit. Prepare to change your dressing in a sterile (very clean) way:
Remove the dressing and check your skin:
Clean the area and catheter:
To place a new dressing:
Tape the catheter to secure it:
Throw away the face mask and gloves and wash your hands when done. Write down the date you changed your dressing. Other CareKeep all the clamps on your catheter closed at all times. If instructed, change the caps (ports) at the end of the catheter when you change your dressing and after blood draws. It is usually OK to take showers and baths several days after your catheter is put in place. Ask your provider how long to wait. When you do shower or bathe, make sure the dressing is secure and your catheter site stays dry. Do not let the catheter site go under water if you are soaking in a bathtub. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your provider if you have:
Also call your provider if your catheter:
Alternative NamesPICC - dressing change ReferencesSmith SF, Duell DJ, Martin BC, Gonzalez L, Aebersold M. Central vascular access devices. In: Smith SF, Duell DJ, Martin BC, Gonzalez L, Aebersold M, eds. Clinical Nursing Skills: Basic to Advanced Skills. 9th ed. New York, NY: Pearson; 2016:chap 29. Review Date 10/17/2021Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. What is the proper way to change a PICC line dressing?Steps on How to Change a PICC Line Dressing. Clean the work area with alcohol pads or soap and water to sterilize the work area. ... . Wash the hands thoroughly with soap and water for a minimum of 15 seconds. ... . Using the alcohol pads, lightly rub the pads over the patient's old pads and dressing.. What is a StatLock for PICC line?StatLock® (C.R. Bard) is a stabilization device with an adhesive anchor pad. The catheter wings of the PICC must be placed over the posts then the system is closed with "gull-wings" .
How often does a PICC line dressing need to be changed?You should change the dressing about once a week. You need to change it sooner if it becomes loose or gets wet or dirty. Since a PICC is placed in one of your arms and you need two hands to change the dressing, it is best to have someone help you with the dressing change.
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