|
Regional West Medical Center
4021 Avenue B
Scottsbluff, Nebraska 69361
(308) 630-1377
Regional West Medical Center's Infusion Center opened in July of 2006 to serve the growing number of patients who need long-term intravascular access devices. Patients and family members are caring for their infusion needs at home now more than ever before and the need for education has become even more important. The Infusion Center provides education and support to the patient and their family members who will be involved in this self-care once the patient leaves the hospital. The infusion nurses work with unit nurses and health care providers to determine the appropriate vascular line for each patient. The advantage of the PICC line over other central venous catheters is that it can be in place for an indefinite period of time. PICC lines are placed using ultra sound to guide the needle. A radiologist will verify the tip placement prior to the use of the PICC catheter.
Many patients whom have had a PICC line once, request to have a PICC line placed when they are admitted to the hospital on subsequent visits. The reason is that the PICC line can be used for an extended period of time, most of the lab specimens can be drawn from the PICC line and the restarting of the peripheral IV every three days for some one with poor veins.
If you have any questions related to PICC lines please contact the infusion center at extension 1377.
The infusion RN's assess each line 24 hours post insertion and do a sterile dressing change as well. They are available to assist and support the nursing staff in the care of the central line.
| |
