One of the most common complication risks occurring in home care situations is infection. Typically the infection source is directly related to the dressing, which covers the PICC insertion site, because it gets wet. However, this risk can now be greatly minimized, if not avoided altogether with the use of a waterproof DryPro PICC Protector.
Maintaining a clean and dry dressing is paramount to a continued well functioning PICC line. Dressings must be changed every 7 days minimum.
However, if the dressing becomes wet from water or perspiration, soiled or loses integrity, it must be changed immediately by your health care provider.
PICC line dressings often become wet during bathing or showering. Even the most protected dressing is susceptible during bathing. Once wet, moisture and body heat become the ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
As many PICC lines are inserted to treat infections at home with intravenous antibiotics, treating a secondary infection from a moist dressing can pose additional threat of additional hospitalisation and longer antibiotic therapy.
But now there is a mechanism that will prevent the PICC dressing from getting wet during bathing or showering.
The Dry Pro PICC Protector provides waterproof protection that even allows swimming and water sports. Invented by Dr. Roy Archambault DPM, once the flexible sleeve is placed over the dressing and PICC, a uniquely designed vacuum creates a water tight seal allowing the patient to bathe and shower freely as well as participate in swimming activities that may be important to their exercise regime.
Normalcy of life is a documented boost for healing. Bathing, showering, and swimming (especially during summer), with minimal worry about the risk to the PICC line dressing because it can now be waterproofed, can make the difference between expected and dreaded treatment time and possible complications versus expected treatment without complications.
And remember – most complications stem from wet dressings.
The health information on this Website is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions