PiCC line

Morning Del,

I've had my picc line 2ish months now and it is so much more convenient than being stabbed all the time for bloods and chemo.

My biggest issue is not being able to enjoy a relaxing bath (have to have my arm stuck up in the air). I also sometimes forget its there and lay on that side but a quick shuffle about sorts that out. But other than that I've had no real issues. 

I got a couple of covers from the hospital (they have various ones and hats and headscarves to buy) but I've also seen some nice ones online on amazon etc. But I havent uead one yet but maybe will if the weather gets nice enough to have my arm out in public!

Hope that helps xx

Hi . Not from this group, but I did have a PICC line in for several months. Never really had a problem with it. Painless going in. Only takes a few minutes going in, but about 20 minutes overall with preparation etc. Once in, you should go for a quick chest x-ray to check it is in the right place. When not in use, it is covered with a dressing. You can get sleeves for it, but as a man, I just used to make do with a roll of tubi grip (elastic bandage) and cut a fresh piece off every day. It is important not to get it wet. Again, you can buy waterproof sleeves, but I made do with wrapping it in clingfilm in the bath or shower. You just need to be a bit careful in the shower. Sleeves can be bought online, but some larger pharmacies stock them. It needs to be flushed once a week. This can be done at the hospital, but when I had no hospital appointments, I had an arrangement with the practice nurse at the GPs, who did it for me. Flushing takes a few minutes and  painless. Overall, you tend to forget about it and can do pretty much anything as long as nothing strenuous.

PS. post just popped up as I was typing, but I shall post anyway. Best wishes.

Perfect, thanks all. I will have a look at the waterproof covers for showers

Del x

Hi Delh.  I have had  my PICC line in for two months now, and it is real easy to get along with.  It gets cleaned and redressed every 7 to 10 days, but has caused very little issues.  I have had a couple of UTI’s and on both occasions the hospital were able to use my PiCC line for IV AB’s as well so made life a whole lot easier, than continually trying to find veins.  I am with Rily and mainly use tubigrip, and did buy a PiccMe line cover, but must have bought medium instead of small and found it did not stay up on my arm properly.  The sleeves for showering are great but not so ideal for baths as there is a little bit of seepage of water into it.  I hardly notice my PICC line anymore.