PICC
Medical abbreviation · Nursing
| Stands for | Peripherally inserted central catheter |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
PICC stands for Peripherally inserted central catheter, a nursing abbreviation.
Long, thin catheter inserted through an arm vein, typically the basilic or brachial, and advanced until its tip sits in the lower superior vena cava. It allows weeks to months of IV antibiotics, chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition.
Example: Right basilic PICC, double lumen, 42 cm, tip confirmed at cavoatrial junction.
Usage notes
Pronounced "pick". Tip position is confirmed by chest X-ray or ECG-guided placement before use. Dressings are typically changed every seven days with sterile technique. Blood pressure cuffs and tight sleeves are avoided on the PICC arm, and arm circumference is measured to detect swelling that may signal a clot.
Related abbreviations
More nursing abbreviations
- OASIS – Outcome and Assessment Information Set
- OGT – Orogastric tube
- OOB – Out of bed
- PERRL – Pupils equal, round, reactive to light
- PERRLA – Pupils equal, round, reactive to light and accommodation
- PI – Pressure injury
- PIV – Peripheral intravenous catheter
- QSEN – Quality and Safety Education for Nurses
- ROC – Resumption of care
- s/p – Status post
- SCDs – Sequential compression devices
- SL – Saline lock
See all 90 nursing abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.