Which complications can arise from the insertion of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC)?

The complications that can arise from the insertion of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) often include infection and thrombosis, making this the correct choice.

Infection is a significant risk with any vascular access device, including PICCs. The presence of a foreign body in the body can provide a surface for bacteria to adhere to, which may lead to local infection at the insertion site or systemic infections such as sepsis if bacteria enter the bloodstream. It is crucial to follow strict aseptic techniques during insertion and care of the catheter to minimize this risk.

Thrombosis, defined as the formation of a blood clot within the blood vessel, can occur due to trauma from catheter placement, irritation of the vessel wall, or blood flow alterations caused by the presence of the catheter. This can potentially lead to complications such as occlusion of the catheter, reduced efficacy of medication delivery, or even more serious complications like pulmonary embolism if a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs.

While dehydration and hypertension, skin allergies and rashes, and respiratory distress and nausea can occur in various medical contexts, they are not direct complications related to the procedure of placing a PICC line. Understanding the specific risks associated with PICC placement helps healthcare professionals