How is the PICC inserted?

• A specially trained nurse or doctor will use an ultrasound machine to find the veins in your upper arm.

• Your arm will be cleaned and covered with a sterile cloth to prevent infection.

• Medicine is used to numb the area where the PICC will be placed. The PICC will be inserted into a vein just above the bend of your elbow and guided into a large vein in your chest. Most patients feel little or no discomfort during this procedure.

• Once the PICC is in place, it is held to your arm with special tape and covered with a sterile dressing.

• A chest x-ray is taken afterwards to make sure the PICC is in the right place.

• You will be able to bend your arm and use your arm just as you would without the PICC in place.