During a pre-hospital cardiac arrest, the team notes the patient has a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line) in situ. The team cannot est...

Question

During a pre-hospital cardiac arrest, the team notes the patient has a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line) in situ. The team cannot establish IV or IO access. Can drugs be administered through the PICC line?

Accepted Answer

Yes - PICC lines can be used for ALS drug administration if no other access is available

Answer

No - PICC lines should never be used in cardiac arrest

Answer

No - only intraosseous access is acceptable if peripheral IV fails

Answer

Yes - but only for adrenaline, not amiodarone

Answer

Yes - but the line must be flushed with 50 mL heparinised saline first

uk-dipimc MCQ (SBA): Vascular Access in Cardiac Arrest

During a pre-hospital cardiac arrest, the team notes the patient has a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line) in situ. The team cannot establish IV or IO access. Can drugs be administered through the PICC line?