Current training in percutaneously inserted central catheter (PICC) placement and maintenance for neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows.

Abstract

To describe the current educational status of percutaneously inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion/ maintenance training for neonatal-perinatal medicine (NPM) fellows in the United States. A cross-sectional 34-question survey was electronically distributed to NPM fellowship training program directors (PDs) in the United States. The response rate was 81.8% (81/99 PD). Most PDs (68.5%) reported that their neonatal intensive care unit has a PICC team. Fellows were PICC team members in 72%. Only 52% of programs offer formal training in PICC placement to fellows; 61.5% of these utilize a standardized curriculum. Dedicated PICC team existence was negatively associated with formal training for PICC insertion and maintenance for fellows (42.0% with PICC team vs. 73.91% without, p = 0.01). Wide variation exists in fellow's exposure, education, and competency assessment in PICC-related activities nationally. Development of a standardized curriculum would be beneficial.