Which statement correctly describes a PICC line?

• A. It is a peripheral line inserted in the hand.
• B. It is a central line inserted via the arm for long-term venous access.
• C. It is a central line used only for chemotherapy.
• D. It is the same as an implanted port.

Answer: (B)

A PICC line is a central venous access device placed through a peripheral vein in the arm, with the catheter tip resting in a central vein (usually near the superior vena cava). This arrangement allows reliable, long-term IV access for a variety of therapies and frequent blood draws without needing multiple peripheral sticks. It’s considered a central line because the tip sits in the central circulation, not in a peripheral vein.

It’s not a simple peripheral IV inserted in the hand, since its purpose and endpoint are central rather than just peripheral. It’s not limited to chemotherapy; a PICC line is used for many long‑term IV therapies, including antibiotics, nutrition, or frequent labs. And it’s not the same as an implanted port, which is fully under the skin with a subcutaneous reservoir; a PICC line remains an external catheter that exits the arm and is accessed through the hub.

So the description central line inserted via the arm for long-term venous access matches how a PICC line is placed and used.