What is one of the main uses for a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)?

What is one of the main uses for a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)?

• A. Administering rapid bolus injections
• B. Providing short-term intravenous access only
• C. Long-term intravenous access without central line
• D. Delivering high-pressure infusions quickly

Answer: (C)

A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is specifically designed for long-term intravenous access, making it suitable for patients who require extended therapy that may last for weeks or months. The PICC is inserted into a peripheral vein and threaded to a central vein, allowing for the administration of medications, fluids, and nutrition over a longer duration. This capability is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy, long-term antibiotics, or other treatments that necessitate reliable venous access without needing to frequently start new peripheral IVs. Indications for use of a PICC include the management of patients with difficult venous access and those needing frequent blood draws or infusions. Other options are less applicable to the purpose of PICC lines. Rapid bolus injections and high-pressure infusions are more appropriately assigned to other types of intravenous access, as PICCs are not typically used in emergency situations or when immediate therapeutic interventions are required. Additionally, PICCs provide access for long-term use, contradicting the notion of being limited to short-term access.

A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is specifically designed for long-term intravenous access, making it suitable for patients who require extended therapy that may last for weeks or months. The PICC is inserted into a peripheral vein and threaded to a central vein, allowing for the administration of medications, fluids, and nutrition over a longer duration.

This capability is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy, long-term antibiotics, or other treatments that necessitate reliable venous access without needing to frequently start new peripheral IVs. Indications for use of a PICC include the management of patients with difficult venous access and those needing frequent blood draws or infusions.

Other options are less applicable to the purpose of PICC lines. Rapid bolus injections and high-pressure infusions are more appropriately assigned to other types of intravenous access, as PICCs are not typically used in emergency situations or when immediate therapeutic interventions are required. Additionally, PICCs provide access for long-term use, contradicting the notion of being limited to short-term access.