Evaluating the Use of Grip Exercises to Decrease Deep Vein Thrombosis in Adult Patients With PICC Lines

Patients who have a peripherally-inserted central catheter (PICC) placed are at a risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). At TriHealth, approximately 2-4 patients per month who have a PICC placed experience a subsequent DVT. One innovative way to possibly mitigate the risk of DVTs is hand grip exercises. The current study will be the first study to evaluate hand grip exercises for the prevention of DVTs in adult patients hospitalized in the United States.

Inclusion Criteria: * Had a PICC placed in the past 24 hours by the Vascular Access Team * Patient is admitted to either Bethesda North Hospital or Good Samarian Hospital Exclusion Criteria: * Under 18 years old * Does not speak English * Unable to consent to involvement in the research study * Has a bleeding disorder/diagnosis * Has a severe limb disfunction whereby they would be unable to perform the grip exercises