What is a PICC Nurse Job?
A PICC Nurse Job is a highly specialized nursing position that involves placing peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) into patients' veins. These catheters are used for a variety of reasons, including long-term medication administration, blood transfusions, and kidney dialysis. A PICC Nurse is responsible for inserting, maintaining, and removing these catheters, as well as monitoring patients for any complications that may arise.
What do PICC Nurses Usually do in this Position?
A PICC Nurse's primary responsibility is to insert PICC lines into patients' veins. This involves using ultrasound guidance to locate the vein, inserting the catheter, and verifying its placement with an X-ray or other imaging technique. Once the catheter is in place, the PICC Nurse is responsible for maintaining it, including flushing it with saline and heparin to prevent blood clots and infections. They also monitor patients for any complications that may arise, such as bleeding, infection, or catheter dislodgement.
Top 5 Skills for the Position
- Excellent attention to detail and hand-eye coordination
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
- Knowledge of anatomy and physiology
- Familiarity with medical terminology and procedures
How to Become a PICC Nurse
To become a PICC Nurse, you must first become a registered nurse (RN) by completing a nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you are an RN, you can gain experience in critical care or another specialty before pursuing additional training in PICC line insertion. This training typically involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on practice under the supervision of an experienced PICC Nurse. Certification is also available through organizations such as the Infusion Nurses Certification Corporation (INCC).
Average Salary
According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for a PICC Nurse is $85,449. However, this can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and level of education.
Roles and Types
PICC Nurses can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home healthcare agencies. They may also specialize in certain areas, such as pediatrics or oncology. In addition to their primary role of inserting and maintaining PICC lines, they may also be responsible for educating patients and other healthcare providers on proper catheter care and infection prevention.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
According to ZipRecruiter, the top five states for PICC Nurse jobs in the United States are California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. However, there is a high demand for PICC Nurses in many other states as well, particularly those with large healthcare systems or aging populations.
What are the Typical Tools?
PICC Nurses use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their job duties, including ultrasound machines, catheter insertion kits, sterile gloves and drapes, and X-ray machines. They may also use electronic health records (EHRs) to document patient care and communicate with other healthcare providers.
In Conclusion
PICC Nurse Jobs are a highly specialized nursing position that requires extensive training and experience. These nurses play a critical role in the care of patients who require long-term intravenous therapy, and their skills and expertise are in high demand across the healthcare industry. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a PICC Nurse, be prepared to work hard, stay focused, and commit to ongoing education and professional development.