For a PICC, which restriction is commonly observed regarding measurements on the arm with the catheter?

• A. BP measurements and blood draws should not be performed on the arm with the PICC
• B. Blood draws must always be performed from the leg
• C. BP can be measured on the arm with the PICC but blood draws are prohibited
• D. The arm with the PICC is suitable for all standard measurements

Answer: (A)

When a PICC is in place, that arm contains a catheter entering the venous system toward the heart. Procedures that apply pressure or involve puncturing that arm can interfere with the catheter’s position or function. A blood pressure cuff on the PICC arm can compress the vein around the catheter, increasing the risk that the catheter becomes displaced or occluded and that the line’s flow is affected. For blood draws, drawing from the arm with the PICC can introduce IV fluids or medications into the sample, or disturb the catheter’s patency, potentially compromising both the sample and the line. Because of these risks, measurements and venipuncture are typically avoided on the arm with the PICC, with the opposite arm used for standard measurements and draws.