What action should be taken immediately after removing a PICC line to prevent air entry and control bleeding?

• A. Apply pressure to the site with sterile gauze.
• B. Inspect the catheter tip for integrity.
• C. Apply antiseptic ointment to the skin.
• D. Notify the healthcare provider.

Answer: (A)

Immediately after removing a PICC line, the priority is to seal the puncture site and prevent air from entering the bloodstream. Pressing directly on the insertion site with sterile gauze creates a compression that closes the venous puncture and promotes hemostasis, reducing the risk of both bleeding and air entry. Keep applying firm pressure until bleeding stops and a stable clot forms, then cover with a clean dressing to protect the site.

Inspecting the catheter tip isn’t applicable once it’s removed, so that step isn’t needed. Applying antiseptic ointment isn’t the immediate priority and isn’t necessary for stopping bleeding. Notifying the provider is important if bleeding is heavy or there are signs of complications (like suspected air embolism), but the first action to prevent air entry and control bleeding is to apply pressure.