The 3D model for this guide is being made. Until it is ready, every step is explained in words, and the figure shows where in the body it happens.
12 short steps · about 10 minutes to read
Step through PICC
A PICC is a long, thin tube that goes into a vein in your upper arm and ends in a large vein just above your heart. It is put in while you are awake, with numbing medicine, and it lets your care team give treatment for weeks or months without a new needle each time.
The short version
- A PICC is a long, thin, soft tube that goes into a vein in your upper arm and ends in a large vein just above your heart.
- It lets your care team give you medicine, fluids, liquid food or blood for weeks or months without a new needle each time.
- You stay awake while the team numbs your arm and guides the tube into place, and most people go home the same day.
- Keep the dressing clean and dry, and call right away for a fever or a swollen arm. When you are done, a nurse usually slides the line out.
Up nextA PICC is a long, thin tube for medicine
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