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How to Remove a PICC

A PICC or peripherally inserted central catheter is a device inserted into a peripheral vein, usually the basilic or cephalic veins in the arm, to allow access to the central venous circulation. Indications for using a PICC include home intravenous (I.V.) infusion of high particle or irritating solutions and drugs, long-term I.V. infusion of medications such as antibiotics or chemotherapeutic agents, for administration of I.V. feeding and for repeated sampling of venous blood. Removal of the PICC should only be performed by a trained professional and requires a physician's order.

Things You'll Need

  • Non-sterile gloves
  • Antiseptic solution
  • Gauze
  • Surgical tape
  • Antibiotic ointment
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ask the patient to sit up and place the arm at a 90 degree angle to the body. Put on your non-sterile gloves.

    • 2

      Remove the dressing that covers the PICC insertion site and any devices securing the PICC in place. Clean the insertion site with antiseptic solution and let it dry. Take the sterile gauze in your non-dominant hand in preparation for covering the PICC site once it is removed.

    • 3

      Pull out the PICC gently and steadily. Continue to move your hand near to the insertion site as you pull the PICC out. You should be able to smoothly remove the PICC. If there is any resistance, do not pull any further, instead you should immediately contact the patient's physician for further instruction.

    • 4

      Place the gauze over the insertion site once the PICC is completely removed. Apply pressure to the area for two to three minutes or until bleeding stops. Apply antibiotic ointment to the area and apply a gauze to the area, secured in place with surgical tape.

    • 5

      Measure the length of the PICC that was removed. Compare it to the length recorded with the PICC was originally inserted. If the removed length of PICC is shorter than it was when inserted, contact the patient's physician immediately as this indicates that part of the PICC is retained in the patient and requires an emergency procedure for removal.

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