Disposable Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What are peripherally inserted central and midline catheters? A catheter is a small tube used to give treatments and to take blood. The catheter is guided into place through a peripheral vein in your upper arm. Peripheral veins lead from your arms and legs to your heart. A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is guided into a vein near the heart. A midline catheter is guided into a vein below the armpit. Why might I need a PICC or midline catheter? You need long-term IV therapy: A catheter has one or more lumens (openings). Healthcare providers can give you medicine, take blood, or do other tests through these openings. PICC and midline catheters can stay in place longer than some other types of IV catheters. Healthcare providers can give you medicine such as IV antibiotics or chemotherapy for several weeks. You can also receive TPN (liquid food) through a PICC.. Your veins need to be protected: Healthcare pro…