Preparing and Caring for Your Midline or PICC Catheter With StatLock Securement Device
Published date : 14 October 2013
Article date : 14 October 2013
You had a catheter inserted into a vein in your arm. This handout was prepared to teach you about the care of your catheter. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask your doctor or nurse.
What is a Midline or PICC Line?
A PICC (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter) line is a flexible hollow tube placed in a vein in your arm, most often above the elbow. The PICC line is about 18 to 24 inches long and goes into the large vein near your heart. It can be left in for a longer period of time than a midline catheter. There will be one, two, or three lumens (IV access lines) at the end of the catheter where your medicine will be given and labs can be drawn.
A midline catheter is about eight inches long and goes to the level of your shoulder. It is used as a short-term intravenous (IV) that can be kept in your arm up to 4 weeks.
