title: Implanted ports. Technologic advances and nursing care issues.
abstract: The IVAD has an established role in the care of patients requiring frequency or long-term vascular access. IVADs are used in all types of settings including hospitals, ambulatory clinics, and the home. Nurses are responsible for identifying patients who would benefit from an IVAD, conducting preoperative teaching and postoperative assessment, accessing the port, administering medications, performing site care, maintaining patency, teaching self-care, and troubleshooting. An abundance of controversial issues in the management of IVADs offers a wide range for potential research studies. In addition, the impact of evolving technology will continue to influence the care issues surrounding IVADs. Continual appraisal of new information is essential for nurses to remain current and competent in meeting the needs of patients with IVADs.
authors.affiliation: Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio.
authors.forename: S M
authors.initials: SM
authors.lastname: Gullo
mesh_terms: D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009339:Needles