Proactive PICC placement: evaluating the patient experience

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Patient Care

Background:

• Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are crucial for long-term venous access in chemotherapy.
• Evaluating patient experience is vital for optimizing device implementation and care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient satisfaction and experience with proactively placed PICCs.
• To identify factors influencing patient perception of PICC insertion and use.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was administered to patients receiving chemotherapy with an in-situ PICC.
• Data collected on information provision, insertion pain, and complications.
• Free-text comments were included for qualitative feedback.

Main Results:

• The majority of patients felt well-informed about the PICC procedure.
• Most reported minimal pain during insertion, with pain linked to insertion difficulties.
• Complication rates were low, primarily mechanical issues with blood withdrawal.

Conclusions:

• Proactive PICC insertion is generally well-tolerated by patients.
• Patients recommend PICC lines, finding they significantly ease treatment management.
• Positive patient experience is achievable with adequate information and skilled insertion.