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How do you keep your PICC from getting wet when bathing?

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Posted 8/11/2009 2:14 PM (GMT -5)
Forgive me if this has been addressed in other posts.  I just wondered if anyone has a magic trick.....I have a large Ziplock bag with the bottom cut out, and use rubber bands on both ends.  The ruuber bands are pretty tough on my XL arms, however.  And somehow it leaks, anyway.   Nurses suggested SaranWrap, but I can't use that stuff for what it's designed for, much less on my arm.   I'd appreciate any tips.  Thanks! :-)
Posted 8/11/2009 2:38 PM (GMT -5)
Hey Cleo,

You can go to this site to get a cover to protect the picc line:

https://www.brownmed.com/Products/StoreProductDetail29.cfm?StoreProductId=99

Also, if you read the newbie section on this board, there is a ton of info on picc lines. A good read for sure.
Posted 8/11/2009 2:45 PM (GMT -5)
Whoa, THANKS! And did you see my posting re: the sauna, it should be zipped up when in use but unzipped while pre-heating. I think I burned up the electrical box by pre-heating too long...with it unzipped. Thanks again for the link. I knew that there should be SOMETHING out there!
Posted 8/11/2009 2:55 PM (GMT -5)
I bought a shower sleeve from Rite Aid.  It has an adjustable drawstring on both sides so you can adjust it to the tension comfy for you (although you have to make it a little tight so water cannot get in).  Underneath, I wrap an ACE bandage around the PICC area just for extra protection so my dressing doesn't get wet.  The sleeve goes from wrist to armpit, so it's a bit cumbersome, but I've had my PICC in since February and have never gotten it wet.  I too tried the Saran Wrap - like you said - hard to wrap and it's very uncomfortable.

This is strictly for showering - no swimming!

Good luck,

Lala

Posted 8/11/2009 2:55 PM (GMT -5)
Yes! I saw that post and THANK YOU:) I didn't even realize you were supposed to keep it unzipped. Thank God my husband did that. I'm glad they are sending you another one for free.
Posted 8/11/2009 5:13 PM (GMT -5)
I've been using the Brown mid-arm protector and it's working out great. Very easy to use and not a bit of water or dampness gets in. Do not use the Dry Pro. I had a bad experience with it. Caused me to bleed and the nurse said they have a few patients this has happened to with the Dry Pro. Might work for some but just not worth it in my opinion.
Posted 8/11/2009 9:14 PM (GMT -5)
I have heard recommendations also for using Press-N-Seal wrap (I think Glad makes it, but not sure) to cover PICC line sites for showering. I haven't tried it though. I always sponge bathe or use waterless bathing cloths. So far, I've managed to keep the same PICC site (2 line changes at the same site) since June 30th 2008 with no site or line infections, so I guess I must be doing something right, LOL.

Cheers,
Posted 8/14/2009 9:57 AM (GMT -5)
Whoa , I got the Mid-Arm protector from Brown's Med Supply and it's totally wonderful!!! Thanks for the suggestion!
Posted 8/14/2009 4:57 PM (GMT -5)
That's great Cleo!!! How are you feeling today?
Posted 8/17/2009 8:52 AM (GMT -5)
Same device that LaLa has, I found it at CVS for about $5.00 and so far, so good.
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