What must be inspected before accessing a PICC line?

Before accessing a PICC line, it is essential to inspect the catheter for tears or breaks, visible kinks, and bleeding around the site. This inspection is vital to ensure that the PICC line is functioning properly and is safe to use. Checking for tears or breaks in the catheter helps prevent potential complications such as leakage or embolism, which could occur if the catheter is damaged. Visible kinks can obstruct the flow of fluids or medications, while bleeding around the site may indicate a problem with the line’s placement or integrity that requires immediate attention.

This thorough assessment ensures patient safety and the efficacy of the therapy being delivered through the PICC line. By verifying these conditions, healthcare providers can take appropriate actions if any issues are identified prior to accessing the line.