What Parents Should Know About Hickman Lines
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
When a child needs a Hickman line, life suddenly revolves around something most parents had never heard of before. It’s not just about learning the medical details—it’s about the daily routine, the constant awareness of the line, and the emotional side of watching a child navigate something so complex. Parents often worry about infection, accidental tugs, and how it affects everything from bath time to hugs. At first, it can feel overwhelming, but with time, these tasks become just another part of the day—manageable, routine, and even second nature.
A Hickman line is an important tool, but it does not define a child. With the right support, adjustments, and a little creativity, children with central lines can continue to play, explore, and enjoy life just like any other child.
What a Hickman Line Does
A Hickman line is a type of central venous catheter that sits in a large vein near the heart. Unlike a standard IV, which is placed in a small vein and needs to be replaced frequently, this type of line can stay in place for weeks, months, or even longer. It is often used for chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition (TPN), frequent blood draws, or long-term medication delivery. The line exits through the chest, with one or more tubes extending outside the body. A small cuff under the skin helps hold it in place and creates a barrier against bacteria.
While a Hickman line helps reduce the need for repeated needle sticks, it also requires dedicated care to prevent infections and keep it working properly. Parents quickly become skilled in sterile techniques, dressing changes, and line flushing. It takes practice, but with time, these steps become a natural part of the daily routine.
Reducing Infection Risk
Since a Hickman line leads directly to the bloodstream, preventing infection is one of the most important aspects of care. While this responsibility can feel heavy at first, parents quickly develop a rhythm that makes sterile care easier. Small habits, like setting up a dedicated space for supplies and following the same steps each time, help make infection prevention second nature.
Handwashing is the most powerful tool in keeping a Hickman line clean. Before touching the line or supplies, hands should be washed thoroughly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a reliable alternative.
Sterile dressing changes are needed regularly to keep the exit site clean and protected. Hospitals teach parents how to perform these changes, including using sterile gloves, cleaning solutions, and protective masks. The process may feel intimidating at first, but after a few tries, it becomes much easier.
Flushing the line helps prevent clots from forming. Depending on medical instructions, the line may need to be flushed daily or after each use with saline or heparin.
It is important to watch for early signs of infection. Redness, swelling, pain, or discharge at the exit site can indicate a localized infection, while fever, chills, or general illness may be signs of a bloodstream infection. If any concerns arise, it is always best to check with a doctor rather than waiting. Catching problems early can make a big difference.
Preventing Accidental Tugs and Dislodgement
Because the line extends from the chest, it can sometimes get pulled or caught during daily activities. Younger children may be curious about it, while older kids may forget to be cautious when playing.
Clothing can help protect the line and keep it secure. Soft, loose-fitting tops with high necks are often helpful, and some families modify undershirts with built-in pockets or fabric loops to tuck tubing away safely.
Chest straps or securement devices can provide extra support. These help reduce movement and prevent accidental tugs, especially for active children.
Play may require a few adjustments. Contact sports, roughhousing, and activities with a high risk of falling may need to be avoided, but that does not mean all physical activity has to stop. Many kids can still enjoy favorite activities with minor modifications. Low-impact movement, dancing, obstacle courses, or even a creative “Hickman-safe” superhero training session can keep kids engaged and having fun while protecting the line.
If the line does get pulled, it is important to check the dressing and ensure there is no bleeding or displacement. If the line comes out completely—a rare but serious event—pressure should be applied to the site, and medical help should be sought immediately.
Bathing and Water Safety
A Hickman line must stay dry to prevent infection, which can make bathing a little tricky but not impossible.
Shower covers and plastic wrap can be used to protect the area. Medical-grade waterproof dressings or specialized shower covers are available, but some families use plastic wrap and tape as an extra layer of protection.
Sponge baths are often the easiest option for younger children. This allows for gentle cleaning while keeping the line dry.
Swimming is usually not recommended because of the high infection risk from pools, lakes, and hot tubs. Some children with long-term lines use specialized waterproof covers, but these should only be used with a doctor’s approval.
Helping Kids Emotionally Adjust
A Hickman line is a big adjustment, not just physically but emotionally. Children may feel self-conscious, frustrated by limitations, or nervous about line care. Helping them feel in control of their experience can ease anxiety.
Explaining the line in an age-appropriate way helps children understand why they have it. Younger kids may only need a simple explanation like, “This helps you get medicine without so many pokes.” Older kids may want to know more details about how it works and why it is important.
Medical play is a great way to help children process their experiences. When they can practice on a toy with a Hickman line, it helps them feel more comfortable with their own care. Playing doctor with a stuffed animal, practicing dressing changes on a doll, or even decorating their own medical supplies can turn something intimidating into something familiar.
Letting kids make choices during care routines gives them a sense of control. Small decisions, like picking a bandage color, choosing a sticker for after a dressing change, or helping gather supplies, can make a big difference.
Life at School and Daycare
Parents often wonder how a Hickman line will fit into a school routine. Teachers, school nurses, and caregivers should be informed, but most children can participate in many activities with small adjustments.
Providing written instructions for the school helps ensure teachers and staff know what to do in an emergency. A simple, clear plan can give everyone peace of mind.
Talking to classmates may be helpful. Some parents find that giving a child a simple, confident way to explain their line reduces curiosity and makes interactions easier.
Adjusting activities allows kids to stay involved. While some physical activities may need modifications, children can still enjoy many aspects of school, including art, music, and playtime with friends.
Handling Emergencies
Being prepared for complications helps parents stay calm if something goes wrong.
Signs of infection should always be taken seriously. Any redness, swelling, discharge, fever, or chills should be reported to a doctor right away.
If the line becomes clogged and will not flush, medical staff should be contacted rather than trying to force the solution through. A special medication can usually dissolve clots safely.
If the Hickman line is accidentally removed, firm pressure should be applied to the site, and medical attention should be sought immediately.
Making Life Feel Normal
A Hickman line may change some daily routines, but it does not have to take over a child’s life. Kids adapt, parents gain confidence, and with time, everything starts to feel more manageable.
Medical play tools designed to reflect real medical experiences help children feel comfortable and confident. When a child can see a doll with a Hickman line or practice care steps on a toy, it makes their own experience feel less intimidating.
A Hickman line is a tool that helps children receive essential treatment, but it does not define who they are. With support, creativity, and a few playful adaptations, kids can continue to learn, explore, and just be kids.