Impact of arm choice for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion on patients: a cross-sectional study

Background: Arm choice for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion is often determined by PICC nurses. Objectives: To explore the impact of arm choice (dominant or non-dominant) on the rate of catheter-related complications and degree of comfort in patients with PICCs. Design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: We used questionnaires and scales to collect 255 patients' general information, catheter-related complications and comfort degree. They were divided into two groups (PICC inserted in the dominant or non-dominant arm). Results: There were significant differences in the rate of PICC occlusion and insertion site bleeding (χ ² = 9.829, P < 0.05; χ ² = 6.502, P < 0.05), both were lower in the non-dominant group than in the dominant group. Patients in the non-dominant group had a higher degree of comfort (Z = -10.166, P < 0.01). Conclusion: Inserting into non-dominant arms is related to the lower rate of catheter-related complications and higher degree of comfort for patients. Impact statement: These findings provide practical evidence for nurses to make a better choice.