Accessing an Implanted Port

Goal: The port is accessed with minimal to no discomfort to the patient; the port site is free from trauma and infection; and the patient verbalizes an understanding of care associated with the port.

1. Verify medical order and/or facility policy and procedure. Often, the procedure for accessing an implanted port and dressing changes will be a standing protocol. Gather equipment and bring to bedside.

2. Perform hand hygiene and put on PPE, if indicated.

3. Identify the patient.

4. Close curtains around bed and close the door to the room, if possible. Explain what you are going to do, and why you are going to do it to the patient. Ask the patient about allergies to tape and skin antiseptics.

5. Place a waste receptacle or bag at a convenient location for use during the procedure.

6. Adjust bed to comfortable working height, usually elbow mheight of the caregiver (VISN 8 Patient Safety Center, 2009).

7. Assist the patient to a comfortable position that provides easy access to the port site. Use the bath blanket to cover any exposed area other than the site.

8. Put a mask on. Ask patient to turn head away from access site. Alternately, have the patient put on a mask. Move the overbed table to a convenient location within easy reach. Set up a sterile field on the table. Open dressing supplies and add to sterile field.

9. Put on clean gloves. Palpate the location of the port. Assess site. Note the status of any surgical incisions that may be present. Remove gloves and discard.

10. Put on sterile gloves. Connect the end cap to the extension tubing on the noncoring needle. Clean end cap with alcohol wipe. Insert syringe with normal saline into end cap. Fill extension tubing with normal saline and apply clamp. Place on sterile field.

11. Apply gentle pressure with the gauze to the insertion site. Apply a Band-Aid over the port if any oozing occurs. Otherwise, a dressing is not necessary. Remove gloves.

12. Ensure patient’s comfort. Lower bed, if not in lowest position. Put on one glove to handle needle. Dispose of needle with extension tubing in sharps container.

13. Remove gloves and additional PPE, if used. Perform hand hygiene.