[LPN30]

I would love to learn how to place PICC lines once I finish my BSN. But I was wondering is there a minimum amount of experience you must have as an RN before you seeK training and do have to have alot of hospital experience because I hated working the floor. And lastly, is the hospital the only place where you can get training?

[cutepuppies]

Hi - as I understand it, the hospital is not the only place to get training, but probably one of the best places. I looked online at www.medtexx.com and I found that they have some one day training courses...take a look and see if they offer it in your area. Most of my friends, if they needed it, were trained on the job.

Good luck!

[momdogz]

The standard is to be competent in basic PICC placement using ultrasound and modified seldingers technique, and be able to place 5 PICCS independently under supervision. Our IV team has been training folks to place them for years, and I can guarantee that you won't be competent after a one day course.

A hospital is definitely the best place to train - you'll get much more experience, and you'll be working with real patients - not just phantom arms!

[LPN30]

thx momdogz. I figured that was the best place but I just didn't know if I could get hired after a course and get further training while on the team or what. I dont want to have to start out as a unit nurse or something. All I want to do in a hospital is place PICCs.

[momdogz]

Are you wanting to get hired into a facility that already has a PICC team? That would be the best. There can be much troubleshooting with PICCs - mostly after you place them, but some with the actual insertion, too. It would be really hard to start a new PICC program if you were just beginning and there was no one there to support you. Plus, you need to have a champion or two in the facility you're wanting to work in; in infection control, radiology, billing and compliance, purchasing.....

If you can, try to get hired into a facility that already has a PICC team. Also - is it in your scope of practice in your state?

[LPN30]

Thats what I want to do. Get on with a team thats willing to teach me. Its not in my scope. Im an LPN- BSN student.

[momdogz]

Go for it! and an early congrats on your BSN. Vascular access is a great field to get into.