PICC Equipment & Device Selection Flashcards

Which catheter material is most commonly used for PICC lines because it softens at body temperature and minimizes vessel trauma?

Answer: Polyurethane

Polyurethane is the most common PICC material because it is biocompatible, flexible, and softens at body temperature, reducing irritation and vessel injury.

A single-lumen PICC is MOST appropriate for which of the following patients?

Answer: A patient requiring a single six-week course of IV antibiotics

Single-lumen PICCs are ideal when only one type of infusion is required, such as a single antibiotic course, minimizing catheter size and thrombosis risk.

What is the standard French size range used for adult PICC lines?

Answer: 3–6 Fr

Adult PICCs typically range from 3 to 6 French, with 4–5 Fr common for single-lumen and 5–6 Fr for dual-lumen devices.

Which PICC valve design remains closed at neutral pressure, preventing blood reflux and often eliminating the need for heparin flushes?

Answer: Groshong valve PICC

The Groshong three-position slit valve remains closed at rest, preventing backflow and air entry, which often makes heparin flushes unnecessary.

To reduce thrombosis risk, the catheter-to-vein ratio for a PICC should ideally not exceed:

Answer: 33%

A catheter-to-vein ratio no greater than 33% (one-third of vein diameter) allows adequate blood flow around the catheter, reducing the risk of thrombosis.

Which PICC design feature allows the clinician to cut the catheter proximally before insertion to achieve the exact required length?

Answer: Trim-to-length (cut-to-length) design

Trim-to-length PICCs can be cut at the proximal end prior to insertion, allowing customization to the patient's individual measurement.

A power-injectable PICC is rated to withstand injection pressures up to:

Answer: 300 psi

Power-injectable PICCs are rated to 300 psi, enabling their use with power injectors for contrast-enhanced CT imaging.