What Happens If Water Gets Under a PICC Line Dressing?

Having a PICC line means taking a little extra care during daily activities. Showering is one of them. But what if water gets under the dressing?

A wet dressing may not protect the PICC site as it should. Wet or damp dressings can breed bacteria meaning increased infection risk. Moisture can also make the dressing loose or affect the adhesive. If water gets underneath, it is best to contact your healthcare team. They can tell you if the dressing needs to be changed.

What Should You Do If Water Gets Under the Dressing?
First, do not panic. Do not lift or remove the dressing unless you have been trained to change it.

Tell your nurse or healthcare team what has happened. They can advise you on the next step. In some cases, the dressing may need to be replaced.

Do not try to dry the area by lifting the dressing. This can disturb the PICC line or increase the chance of contamination.

If you have been trained to change your dressing at home, follow the steps given by your healthcare professional.

Can a Waterproof PICC Dressing Help?

A waterproof or water-resistant dressing can help keep moisture away from the PICC site. This can be useful during activities such as showering. However, waterproof does not mean that the PICC line can be placed underwater. You should still follow your healthcare team's advice about showering, bathing and swimming.

For healthcare providers looking for a waterproof PICC line dressing supplier, it is worth looking at more than water protection. Good adhesion, breathability, comfort and site visibility are also important, all of these factors can support you in reducing any infection risk.

Peak Medical's Cath Dry is a sterile, water-resistant dressing. It also has a moisture indication ring. The ring provides a visible sign when moisture enters the dressing.

How Can You Keep Your PICC Dressing Dry?

A few simple steps can help. Before showering, use the protection recommended by your healthcare team. Keep the PICC area away from direct water spray. Avoid soaking or submerging the PICC line unless your healthcare professional says it is safe. After showering check the dressing. Is it still firmly attached? Does it look dry? If it is wet, loose or damaged, contact your healthcare team.

Do not change the dressing yourself unless you have been trained to do so.

When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Team?
Contact your healthcare team if water gets under the dressing. This is especially important if the dressing is wet or has started to come loose. Also look out for redness, swelling, pain or discharge around the PICC site. Fever or feeling unwell should also be reported.

Your healthcare team can check the site and tell you what to do next.

Choosing a Central Venous Catheter Dressing Supplier

When choosing a waterproof central venous catheter dressing supplier, water protection is only one factor to consider. Healthcare providers may also look at adhesion, comfort, breathability, site visibility and moisture monitoring.

Peak Medical offers specialist catheter-care products, including Cath Dry. Its water-resistant design and moisture indication feature can support everyday catheter care.

FAQ

What happens if water gets under a PICC line dressing?
The dressing can become wet and may not protect the PICC site properly. Contact your healthcare team for advice.
Can I shower with a PICC line?
You may be able to shower with suitable protection. Always follow your healthcare team's instructions.
Does a wet PICC dressing need to be changed?
It may need to be checked, or replaced. Ask your healthcare team what to do.
Are waterproof PICC dressings completely waterproof?
Not always. Check the product instructions & follow professional advice.