Travel Nurse RN - Pediatric Intensive Care Unit - $2,002 per week in Wichita, KS

A Registered Nurse (RN) – PICC Line Nurse is responsible for the insertion, management, and care of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC) in patients across various settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, or home healthcare. This role involves assessing patients for appropriate PICC placement, performing PICC line insertions, and ensuring that these devices are properly maintained to prevent complications such as infection, occlusion, or catheter displacement. The PICC Line RN works closely with other healthcare providers to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care and ensures proper education on catheter care.

• PICC Line Insertion:

  • Perform sterile insertion of PICC lines for patients requiring long-term intravenous (IV) access.
  • Utilize proper technique to ensure that the PICC line is inserted in accordance with hospital protocols and patient safety guidelines.
  • Assess patients for appropriate suitability for PICC line placement, considering factors like vein condition, health history, and therapy requirements.
  • Monitor and document the patient’s condition before, during, and after the PICC line insertion.

• PICC Line Maintenance:

  • Manage and maintain PICC lines, ensuring they are patent and functioning properly.
  • Regularly assess the PICC line for signs of complications, including infection, thrombosis, or displacement.
  • Perform routine flushes of the PICC line to prevent occlusion and ensure proper medication administration.
  • Perform dressing changes and ensure that the PICC site remains clean and free from infection.
  • Provide education to patients and families on the care and maintenance of the PICC line, including hygiene practices, signs of infection, and emergency procedures.

• Patient Assessment and Care:

  • Conduct a thorough assessment of patients’ needs prior to PICC line insertion, considering their medical history, diagnoses, and treatment plans.
  • Assess and monitor the patient for potential complications associated with the PICC line, such as infection or catheter-related blood clots.
  • Document assessments, interventions, and outcomes in the patient’s electronic medical record (EMR).
  • Monitor patients for any allergic reactions, adverse effects, or complications from medications or the insertion process.

• Collaboration and Coordination of Care:

  • Work closely with physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare team members to ensure the appropriate use of PICC lines based on the patient’s clinical needs.
  • Collaborate with pharmacy, nursing staff, and other specialists to ensure that medications and therapies are delivered through the PICC line safely and effectively.
  • Assist in developing individualized care plans for patients requiring long-term intravenous therapy.

• Education and Training:

  • Provide education to patients and families on how to care for their PICC lines, including cleaning and dressing changes, recognizing infection signs, and maintaining proper hygiene.
  • Instruct patients on when to contact healthcare providers for issues such as leakage, pain, or signs of infection.
  • Offer training to healthcare staff on best practices for PICC line care and insertion when necessary.

• Infection Control and Safety:

  • Adhere to strict infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene, sterile techniques for PICC line insertion, and use of aseptic technique during dressing changes.
  • Monitor for signs of infection at the insertion site and provide appropriate interventions, such as culture samples, antibiotics, or changes in dressing techniques.
  • Ensure that all catheter-related materials, equipment, and supplies are sterile and disposed of according to safety and infection control guidelines.

• Documentation and Reporting:

  • Accurately document all procedures, assessments, and patient responses related to the PICC line in the electronic health record (EHR).
  • Report any complications, such as catheter malposition, occlusion, or infection, to the appropriate healthcare provider and ensure timely interventions.
  • Complete all necessary administrative paperwork related to PICC line care, including documentation for billing, insurance, and patient follow-up.

• Continuous Improvement and Professional Development:

  • Participate in ongoing professional development through training, certifications, and education in PICC line care, nursing practices, and infection control.
  • Stay current with evidence-based practices and guidelines related to vascular access, PICC line management, and patient safety.
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives related to PICC line care, patient safety, and nursing practice.