Page 234 - 2023 SMOG Digital

CATHETER SIZE MAX FLOW RATE
PICC Less than 2.0 fr 125mL/hr
PICC Greater than 2.0 fr 250mL/hr
Groshong PICC 3 fr 240mL/hr
Groshong PICC NXT 4 fr 540mL/hr
Groshong PICC NXT 5 fr 200mL/hr
Hickman/Broviac 8–9.5 fr 3000mL/hr

PEARLS:
• Do not exceed recommended flow rates.
• Avoid taking a blood pressure reading in the same arm as the PICC.
• Only non-coring, right angle needles specific for implanted ports are to be used for vascular
access devices that are implanted in the patient. These are generally not carried MEDEVAC units
but may be provided by the patient.
• Priming the tubing of the non-coring needle is essential to prevent air embolism.
• There are many peripherally inserted, tunneled and/or implanted ports options. Providers should
do their best to discern what option the patient has. Patient may be carrying a reference/wallet
card about their device.
• PICC lines will not tolerate rapid infusions or infusions under pressure.

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