Nurses’ knowledge of the peripherally inserted central catheter: Local realities and global challenges

Abstract

Objective: To examine nurses’ knowledge of use of the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), as an intravenous device in practical care, at three public hospitals in Rio de Janeiro State. Method: This descriptive, cross-sectional study used univariate and bivariate analysis and calculated central tendency measures. Results: Although 38 (92.7%) of the nurses reported knowing about the PICC, 29 (70.8%) had no qualification in inserting the catheter; 23 (56.1%) were unaware of the advantages of the device; and 26 (63.4%) stated that the catheter was not indicated at the institutions studied, but that deep puncture predominated. Conclusion: Most of the nurses surveyed lacked the title or qualification enabling them to indicate and insert the PICC. Likewise, the institutions surveyed did not indicate the catheter as an intravenous device, despite its undeniable advantages, such as quality and safety in clinical practice.