Understanding the Supportive Care Needs of Adults Living with PICCs at Home
Introduction:
Living with a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) at home presents unique challenges for adults undergoing intravenous treatment. This qualitative study explores the supportive care needs of these individuals to inform nursing assessments and provide the necessary supports for successful adaptation.
Background:
PICCs are commonly used for patients requiring long-term intravenous therapy. However, individuals often face difficulties in understanding, adapting to, and managing the device at home. This study aims to identify the specific supportive care needs of adults with cancer or infection living with a PICC.
Method:
The study utilized qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 15 participants aged 30-87 years. Participants were recruited from cancer and infectious diseases outpatient units. Two researchers independently analyzed the interview transcripts using content analysis to identify key themes.
Key Findings:
Participants highlighted supportive care needs in eight main categories:
1. Adapting Daily Life: Adjusting routines to accommodate the PICC.
2. Physical Comfort: Managing discomfort and preventing complications.
3. Self-Management: Skills and confidence in maintaining the PICC.
4. Emotional Impact: Coping with the psychological aspects of living with a PICC.
5. Information Content: Access to comprehensive and clear information.
6. Understanding Information: Ensuring information is understood and actionable.
7. Healthcare Resources: Access to necessary medical support and resources.
8. Social Supports: Emotional and practical support from family and friends.
Conclusion:
Adults living with a PICC at home require a broad range of supportive care. Beyond practical and informational needs, emotional and psychological support is crucial for helping individuals adapt to life with a PICC. These insights can guide nurses and healthcare providers in offering comprehensive care tailored to individual needs.
Authors: Rebecca Sharp, Qunyan Xu, Robyn Pumpa, Lisa Elliott, Nadia Corsini, Julie Marker, Jodie Altschwager, Alanna Ortmann, Lisa Turner, Lili Jin, Amanda Ullman, Adrian Esterman
