Which action should be performed after bleeding has stopped following PICC removal?

Which action should be performed after bleeding has stopped following PICC removal?

• A. Apply antiseptic ointment and sterile dressing to the site.
• B. Reinsert the catheter immediately.
• C. Apply a tourniquet proximal to the site.
• D. Leave the site exposed to air.

Answer: (A)

After removing a PICC, the priority is to protect the insertion site from infection and let the wound begin to heal. Once bleeding has stopped with firm pressure, you want to create a clean, protective environment. Applying antiseptic ointment helps reduce bacteria at the site, and placing a sterile dressing over it provides a barrier that keeps the area clean, dry, and cushioned from irritation or trauma. This combination supports healing and makes it easier to notice any changes like redness, swelling, or drainage. Other actions aren’t appropriate. Replacing the catheter isn’t needed once it’s removed, and a tourniquet would unnecessarily constrict blood flow. Leaving the site exposed to air increases the risk of contamination, so keeping it covered with a sterile dressing is the safer choice.

After removing a PICC, the priority is to protect the insertion site from infection and let the wound begin to heal. Once bleeding has stopped with firm pressure, you want to create a clean, protective environment. Applying antiseptic ointment helps reduce bacteria at the site, and placing a sterile dressing over it provides a barrier that keeps the area clean, dry, and cushioned from irritation or trauma. This combination supports healing and makes it easier to notice any changes like redness, swelling, or drainage.

Other actions aren’t appropriate. Replacing the catheter isn’t needed once it’s removed, and a tourniquet would unnecessarily constrict blood flow. Leaving the site exposed to air increases the risk of contamination, so keeping it covered with a sterile dressing is the safer choice.