Which statement about PICCs is true?

Which statement about PICCs is true?

• A. They are implanted under the skin for long-term use
• B. They are tunneled
• C. They are inserted into a vein in the arm
• D. They require surgical removal in the operating room

Answer: (C)

PICCs are inserted through a peripheral vein in the arm and advanced so the tip sits in the central venous system, typically the superior vena cava near the cavoatrial junction. This means the device is not implanted under the skin and not tunneled; the entry point is in the arm, and the catheter travels centrally rather than being placed entirely beneath the skin. Because of this placement, PICCs can stay in place for extended periods and are usually removed at the bedside rather than in the operating room. Removal in the OR is not typically required.

PICCs are inserted through a peripheral vein in the arm and advanced so the tip sits in the central venous system, typically the superior vena cava near the cavoatrial junction. This means the device is not implanted under the skin and not tunneled; the entry point is in the arm, and the catheter travels centrally rather than being placed entirely beneath the skin. Because of this placement, PICCs can stay in place for extended periods and are usually removed at the bedside rather than in the operating room. Removal in the OR is not typically required.