PICC dressing change procedure

Sep 30, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
PICC catheterization refers to peripherally inserted central catheter placement, a specialized device used clinically for intravenous infusion. The dressing change procedure includes removing the dressing, disinfection, and securing the catheter. Strict aseptic technique must be followed during the dressing change. The dressing should be removed from bottom to top, taking care not to pull the catheter out of the body, and avoiding contamination of the skin and catheter beneath the dressing as much as possible.

PICC usually refers to PICC catheter placement. PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) is a specialized device used clinically for intravenous infusion. The specific procedure is as follows:

1. Remove the dressing: Peel off the transparent dressing parallel to the skin, starting from the bottom upward.

2. Disinfection: Hold gauze with the left hand to cover the connector, lift the catheter, and use an alcohol swab in the right hand to cleanse and disinfect clockwise within a 15 cm diameter area centered on the puncture site, avoiding a 1 cm diameter around the puncture point. Use a second alcohol swab to clean and disinfect counterclockwise using the same method. Finally, use a third alcohol swab to clean and disinfect clockwise again in the same manner.

3. Securement: Use adhesive tape in a butterfly-cross pattern to secure the lower edge of the film dressing, then use tape to fix the extension tube horizontally. Label the date and operator's name on the tape and affix it to the transparent dressing.

The dressing change process must strictly follow aseptic techniques. When removing the dressing, always peel from bottom to top to avoid accidentally dislodging the catheter out of the body. Avoid contaminating the skin or catheter beneath the dressing during removal. It is recommended to seek treatment at a qualified hospital and have the procedure performed under the guidance of a trained medical professional.