Impact of arm choice for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion on patients: a cross-sectional study

Background:Arm choice for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion is often determined by PICC nurses. Objectives:To explore the impact of arm choice (dominant or non-dominant) on the rate of catheter-related complications and degree of comfort in patients with PICCs. Design:A cross-sectional study. Methods:We used questionnaires and scales to collect 255 patients' general information, catheter-related complications and comfort degree. They were divided into two groups (PICC inserted in the dominant or non-dominant arm). Results:There were significant differences in the rate of PICC occlusion and insertion site bleeding (chi(2)=9.829,P< 0.05;chi(2)=6.502,P< 0.05), both were lower in the non-dominant group than in the dominant group. Patients in the non-dominant group had a higher degree of comfort (Z= -10.166,P< 0.01). Conclusion:Inserting into non-dominant arms is related to the lower rate of catheter-related complications and higher degree of comfort for patients. Impact statement:These findings provide practical evidence for nurses to make a better choice.