The nurse prepares a client for discharge who needs prescribed intermittent antibiotic infusions through a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line. Which instruction should the nurse include in client teaching about necessary daily infusion care in the home?

A PICC is designed for long-term intravenous infusions and, usually, is inserted into the median cubital vein with the terminal end of the catheter in the superior vena cava. Although the risk of infection is less with a PICC line than with a central venous catheter, it is possible for phlebitis or infection to develop. Clients must inspect the insertion site and affected arm daily and report any discharge, redness, swelling, or pain to the nurse or provider immediately. A PICC line does not require the affected arm to be immobilized. Although a PICC line can be used to obtain a blood specimen, the risk of occlusion from aspirating blood as part of the related daily care is greater than any potential benefit. The PICC line can be used for intermittent or continuous fluid infusion.