I have heard different opionions about leaving in a PICC or removing one if the same arm has a DVT. Some say leave the PICC if the DVT will be treated and remove if not going to be treated. Others say if non-occlusive then okay to leave, if occlusive then remove. Can someone tell me what the current research says?
First question - is the PICC still needed to deliver infusion therapy? If not take it out. If it is, there are criteria for leaving it in and treating. Is the tip correctly located at the cavoatrial junction or lower third of SVC? Is there a good blood return? Are there any signs or symptoms of any type of infection (BSI or local)? If correctly location with a good blood return and absence of infection, leave it in, continue to use it and the prescriber should order anticoagulant for about 3 months. This is in the INS SOP on Thrombosis and is derived from other guidelines on thrombosis and thrombolytics published in the journal CHEST.
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