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A PICC line goes into the superior vena cava of the heart. Many medications or solutions such as TPN are harsh and hurtful to the smaller veins in our bodies. Because the blood flow in the superior vena cava is so strong and fast, it can distribute medications quickly without damaging the vessel.

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Q: Why does a PICC line have to go to your heart?
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Related questions

Can a picc line be inserted in an arm with an old av graft no longer in use?

A PIC line does not go into an arm. They are designed to be a direct line into the heart for the administration of medication.


Is there a PICC line with an inflated balloon for placement?

There is not a PICC line with an inflated balloon for placement.


Can you give liquid morphine sublingual in a pic line?

No. For one reason, you cannot go sublingually through a PICC line, as a PICC line would not be inserted sublingually. The most glaring issue however, is that oral morphine (which I think you are suggesting) can only be given orally. A PICC line is an intravenous route, and would therefore not be appropriate.


PICC requires heparinization how often?

PICC Line requires heparinization how often


What is a PICC line?

A PICC line is a thin hallow tube, kind of like an IV line, that is placed near your elbow and threaded into a large vein that leads into your heart. PICC lines are used on people who need more some long term medicines or people, like me, who use it to get nutrition. PICC lines are inserted in radiology and do not hurt very much. PICC lines are not permant but can stay in for a decent amount of time, that time is based on your condition and your doctor. If you need a PICC line don't be scared. They don't hurt and if you treat it well and keep it sterile it won't get infected. BUT the biggest thing that you need to do is make sure not to get it wet, because then it will become infected.


Does a PICC line cause endocarditis?

The answer to your question is no with a great big BUT after it and said in the same breath. Infections cause endocarditis. PICC lines are used to fight infection. However there are a few increased risk factors once a PICC line is introduced to the equation. If the PICC line is not properly maintained, cleaned and removed, then there is a much higher risk of bacteria affecting the heart structure as there is a direct pathway from the contaminated exterior of the body including the environment to the uncontaminated and isolated heart. When a peripheral PICC line is installed it's termination point us usually just above the aortic valve; therefore, any bacteria that enters the body through that venue has a much greater chance of incubating on the heart structure surfaces as the heart is the first organ the bacteria would meet once departed from the PICC line. Also at risk is the Aortic Heart Valve. The valve itself, once a PICC line is inserted, is exposed to higher concentrations of antibiotics over an extended period of time. The more toxic the antibiotic is, the more advantageous the use of a PICC line is. However, as a result, the Aortic Valve surface may become abraded almost like if someone had brushed a piece of sand paper over the surface. Once this condition is present, then any bacteria passing by has a much greater risk of landing a home - even after the PICC line has been removed and the current bacteria at issue has been eradicated. Suddenly infections on other areas of the body, even dental surgery (root canals) become more risky. I hope this answers your question and clarifies any other questions you may have regarding related PICC/Endocarditis questions.


How long do you have to wait to put in a PICC line after a blood culture?

As soon as you get the test results back from the culture you have the okay to insert the picc line.


Can you smoke marijuana with a picc line?

Yes. Keep your picc covered and make sure to wash your hands.


In what situations does a picc line have to be used?

A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) can be used for blood sampling. The FDA has approved certain types of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC line) for power injections.


Is there a icd-9 code for picc line?

No


What are the dangers of injecting into a picc line?

infection


Is an elevated INR a contraindication to a picc line?

no