Evaluation of a radiographer-led peripherally inserted central catheter insertion service

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Vascular Access Procedures
• Radiography

Background:

• Evaluating a radiographer-led peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion service.
• Utilizing ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance within an interventional radiology suite.
• Assessing the efficacy of specialized radiographer training for PICC placement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the success rate and efficiency of a radiographer-led PICC insertion service.
• To evaluate the service's capability in handling both routine and complex patient cases.
• To determine the feasibility of radiographer-led PICC insertions in patients with specific conditions like cystic fibrosis.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection from 366 consecutive PICC insertions over 12 months.
• Five trained, angiography-specialized radiographers performed all insertions.
• Recorded data included patient demographics, medical history (e.g., cystic fibrosis), number of punctures, vein used, tip position, contrast use, and screening time.

Main Results:

• Achieved an overall PICC insertion success rate of 100%.
• 15% of patients had a history of cystic fibrosis (CF).
• 90% of insertions required one puncture; 7% required contrast; mean screening time was 10.7 seconds.

Conclusions:

• A radiographer-led PICC insertion service, utilizing ultrasound and fluoroscopy, is highly successful.
• The service efficiently handles both straightforward and complex PICC insertions, including in patients with CF.
• This model demonstrates effective and efficient patient care within interventional radiology.