Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) have gained popularity worldwide over the past decade due to their advantages in clinical settings, particularly for oncological and ICU patients. However, complications such as catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) remain concerns. This study analyzed data from 1,936 adult patients who required PICCs at Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Colombia, from September 2022 to May 2024. The median age was 67 years, with an equal gender distribution. PICC lines were in place for a median of 10 days, and catheter-related complications were most prevalent among ICU patients. The institutional incidence rates for CLABSI and CRT were 2.03 and 0.58 per 1,000 catheter-days, respectively, with higher rates observed in ICU settings. Risk factors for complications included prolonged catheter use (≥6 days), brachial vein insertion, and postoperative cardiac surgery care.
To mitigate risks, PICC insertion followed a standardized protocol, including ultrasound guidance for vein selection, ensuring a catheter-to-vein ratio of 1:3, and stringent skin disinfection. Catheters were advanced to the superior vena cava with their positions confirmed via safety checks. Daily monitoring by a dedicated vascular access team ensured early detection of potential complications. Results underscore the importance of institutional protocols, vascular access teams, and regular catheter assessments to reduce CLABSI and CRT rates. Recommendations include adopting care bundles, adherence to evidence-based insertion practices, and integrating ultrasound-guided techniques into PICC placement protocols. This comprehensive approach can optimize clinical outcomes, particularly for ICU patients or those undergoing prolonged catheterization.
