PICC lines can have a single or multiple lumens. A double lumen line contains two separate openings through the same catheter so that two solutions or medications that are not compatible can be given simultaneously.

What is a double lumen PICC line used for?

A single lumen PICC has one tubing and one cap on the end. A double lumen PICC has two separate tubings and two caps. A PICC is used to give medications, fluids and IV nutrition. If the PICC is big enough, it can be used to draw blood.

What does it mean when a central line has multiple lumens?

A multi-lumen catheter is a single catheter with more than one internal channel (called a lumen). A different intravenous infusion can be connected to each lumen, and the fluid will usually exit at a slightly different point along the catheter. A double lumen catheter has 2 lumens while a triple lumen catheter has 3.