The purpose of this project was to define an ordering process to assure an error proof approach in the prevention of premature PICC line activations.
A three-part ordering process was instituted to delineate the steps from PICC line placement to verification and use. A visual cue including a stockinet and stop sign sticker placed at the catheter tip was selected to prompt staff to confirm a physician order before activation.
Before program implementation there were four reported premature activations whereas postimplementation yielded zero premature line activations. This study concluded successful intervention regarding ordering and activation management.