Implantable ports: everything you always wanted to know.
During the last decade, tremendous usage of intravascular drugs and fluids has increased the need for reliable venous access. Implantable ports have become a reliable access device that can be used to administer fluids, medications, and blood products, and to obtain blood samples. A variety of implantable ports is used clinically that varies in reservoir size, profile, portal body material, and the chemical composition of the catheter. While the implanted port needs little or no care by the patient, the nurse must be able to use this device safely, recognizing and intervening appropriately if they occur. In this article, types of implantable ports available on the market, nursing management of significant complications, and nursing responsibilities for care are reviewed.
Camp-Sorrell
D
D
D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000145:classification; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D006801:Humans; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*