Chest pain after PICC removal?

[kk2000]

Hi-

Removed a PICC today in the pt's home-procedure went fine-no c/o pain or discomfort, site looks great-length was the same as when it was put in, if not a tad longer which is not that unusual for a long term placement.

I called my patient to verify a visit for tomorrow and he is complaining of some mild chest pain.

He is alert and oriented-denies shortness of breath or respiratory dificulties, denies palpitations, denies neck, shoulder or arm pain-reports no redness or anything unusual at the site. Says it is very mild-really downplaying it-

Would like to assess him in person, but he is adamant about not wanting me to come to see him tonight-I made him promise to call me if anything worsens or persists. Left a msg for his son to call me to advise him of situation-

Has anyone had a pt complain of chest pain after PICC removal? Any thoughts are appreciated-

Thank you-

[IVRUS, BSN, RN]

A couple of questions...

1. What is the time frame in which the PICC was removed and CP started?

2. Did you use Gel (neosporin or betadine) on top of a 4x4 to seal the tract shut s/p removal?

3. Did the pt lie still x 30 minutes s/p removal? (was he lying down with removal?)

4. Did you meet any resistance with removal, and was the tip "intact" to the naked eye and the

measurements of insertion coincided with what was removed?

[iluvivt, BSN, RN]

Yes I am thinking the same.....did the patient experience an air embolus...the ones I have seen though..the patient always had some degree of SOB.....I am also thinking that the patient may also have a thrombosis...these are often silent...but I have also found that sometimes the patient has rather vague symptoms...does the patient have an increased risk for catheter related thrombosis. Are you sure the tip was not in the right atrium...where was the tip location? You need to go see the patient...do an assessment and notify the MD...it may or may not have anything to do with the PICC....but chest pain is not normal and MD must be notified