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PICC line flushing while on vacation

hittheflag
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Folks

I have a PICC line in place all working normally.  We are keen to get out and about and do some travelling but the frequency of dressing and flushing means we can only get away from home for four or five days at a time before coming back so the chemo guys/ district nurses can administer.

My wife would be more than happy to do the job (risks accepted).  Alternatively is there any mechanism for finding a local service elsewhere in the country when travelling?

Ultimately we'd love to get somewhere warm eg Tenerife.... surely there must be a service that can help ????

Here's hoping.

  • Hi  Hittheflag,

    My name is David and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. Thank you for your enquiry regards PICC line maintenance whilst travelling.

    The good news is that you can travel anywhere in the world with a PICC Line. However, planning your trip is key and should consider how long your planned trip will take and destination.

    One option is to ask your local staff to train your partner in carrying out the maintenance. This should be several supervised attempts until they feel comfortable with this procedure.

    If travelling abroad, find out the local hospital for that area and check if they could facilitate this for you. Also, good to find out if any costs are involved.

    Or, you may wish to look at private healthcare provider abroad or whilst travelling in the UK.

    If you are planning to holiday in the UK then your local team may be able to arrange PICC line maintenance for you provided they have plenty of notice.

    It is a good idea to have a letter from your Consultant to say you are fit to travel with your PICC line and you need to carry medications.

    If flying, then it is also a good idea to inform your airline in advance that you have a PICC line and will require to carry medications in your hand luggage.

    We have some handy advice on travelling including travel insurance and vaccinations which you may find useful going forward. But, remember planning is key.  

    If there is anything else we can help you with please feel free to get back in touch. Have a lovely holiday and take care.

     

    Best wishes

    David, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

     

    Ref/**

    DT/CF

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