If your doctor or nurse has recommended a PICC line (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter), you might feel a little nervous.
Questions like “Will it hurt?”, “Is it scary?”, and “How is it done?” are very common.
Questions like “Will it hurt?”, “Is it scary?”, and “How is it done?” are very common.
At Pacific Intervention Vascular Supplies, we believe patients should understand the process clearly so they feel calm and confident.
The truth is – PICC insertion is a straightforward and safe procedure when done by trained healthcare professionals.
What is a PICC Line?
A PICC is a long, thin tube inserted into a vein in your arm and guided to a large vein near your heart. It’s used for long-term treatments such as chemotherapy, IV antibiotics, nutrition, or other medicines.
Step-by-Step: How a PICC is Inserted
- Preparation – The nurse or doctor will explain the process and answer your questions. You’ll be asked to lie down with your arm comfortably positioned.
- Cleaning & Draping – Your upper arm will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection. A sterile drape will cover the area.
- Local Anaesthetic – A small injection is given to numb the skin. You might feel a quick pinch, but after that, you shouldn’t feel pain, just some gentle pressure.
- Vein Access – Using an ultrasound, the healthcare provider will find the best vein and gently insert the catheter.
- Guiding the PICC – The catheter is slowly advanced through the vein to the correct position near your heart. This doesn’t hurt, you may just feel a slight cool sensation if fluids are flushed through.
- Securing the Line – The PICC is secured with a dressing to keep it in place.
- X-ray Confirmation – An X-ray may be taken to confirm the tip is in the right position before you start using it.
Does It Hurt?
Most patients say the numbing injection is the only part they feel. After that, there’s usually no pain – just mild pressure or a strange “tugging” feeling during the procedure.
Once it’s in, the PICC shouldn’t cause pain.
If you ever feel discomfort, you should tell your nurse or doctor so they can check it.
Most patients say the numbing injection is the only part they feel. After that, there’s usually no pain – just mild pressure or a strange “tugging” feeling during the procedure.
Once it’s in, the PICC shouldn’t cause pain.
If you ever feel discomfort, you should tell your nurse or doctor so they can check it.
How Long Does It Take?
The whole process usually takes 30–45 minutes from start to finish.
Is It Safe?
PICC insertion is considered very safe when performed by trained staff.
The main risks – such as infection or blood clot are rare and can be reduced with proper care and cleaning. Patients should be advised and understand that proper care and cleaning of a central catheter is extremely important to prevent infection and ensure the device works safely throughout treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About PICC Lines
1. Will I be awake during PICC insertion?
Yes. PICC insertion is done under local anaesthetic, so you will be awake but the area will be numb. You won’t feel pain, only mild pressure.
2. Can I shower with a PICC?
Yes, but you must keep the dressing and line dry. A waterproof PICC cover or cling wrap can help protect it during showers.
3. Can I use my arm normally after a PICC is inserted?
You can use your arm for light activities. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until your doctor says it’s safe.
4. How do I take care of my PICC line?
Your PICC line care should be handled by trained healthcare professionals. It is advised to have the line flushed weekly at the hospital ward or daycare unit for maintenance. The dressing should also be changed by a nurse to keep the site clean. Avoid touching the PICC line yourself to reduce the risk of infection.
5. How long can a PICC stay in?
PICC lines can stay in place for weeks or months, depending on your treatment plan.
6. What if I need financial help to get a PICC?
If you need assistance from JKSP, Zakat, JPA, or other bantuan programs, we can provide an official quotation for your application.
Why Choose a PICC Line?
- Fewer needle pricks during treatment
- Easy, quick access for nurses and doctors
- Lower infection risk than repeated IV cannulas
- Suitable for weeks to months of treatment
Need a PICC in Malaysia?
If you require a PICC line for treatment or are a medical officer looking for PICC supplies, contact Pacific Intervention Vascular Supplies.
We provide high-quality PICC products to hospitals and clinics across Malaysia, and can assist patients with quotation letters for bantuan applications.
Get in touch today to learn more or request a quotation.
PICC insertion Malaysia
Is PICC painful
PICC procedure
How is PICC inserted
PICC line for chemotherapy Malaysia
PICC catheter supplier Malaysia
Buy PICC line Malaysia
PICC quotation for bantuan Malaysia
If you require a PICC line for treatment or are a medical officer looking for PICC supplies, contact Pacific Intervention Vascular Supplies.
We provide high-quality PICC products to hospitals and clinics across Malaysia, and can assist patients with quotation letters for bantuan applications.
Get in touch today to learn more or request a quotation.
PICC insertion Malaysia
Is PICC painful
PICC procedure
How is PICC inserted
PICC line for chemotherapy Malaysia
PICC catheter supplier Malaysia
Buy PICC line Malaysia
PICC quotation for bantuan Malaysia
US 8749 
GB 8618 
CA 7763 
AU 7410 
IE 4529 
BR 2117 
VN 1599 
NZ 1580 
