We use the PICC with the cone tip as our Rads feel this is a gentle insertion. We have heard that trimming of a PICC may lead to thromobosis r/t irregular edge at the tip of the PICC. Does anyone have facts regarding? Do most facilities trim the catheter?
Any catheter tip preformed in the manufacturing process will be more smooth and consistent than a tip that has been trimmed. Silicone can be cut in the manufacturing process much the same as it is cut at the bedside but polyurethane is usually preformed. I have never believed in cutting any catheter due to my concern about the jagged edges and thrombosis. We do not have any clinical studies looking at this issue. Janet Pettit, a neonatla NP, published some of her research on testing neonatal PICCs that were trimmed and provided lots of photos of those jagged edges. The tool used to cut is always and issue. The problem with not cutting is that we do not live in a one-size-fits-all world. So there could be excess catheter on the outside that will easily compromise the dressing and could migrate into the vein. So not an easy answer for this one, other than choosing a brand that offers multiple catheter lengths so cutting to a patient specific size becomes less of an issue. Lynn
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861