[canoehead]

I'm just wondering...What is everyone's protocol for port a cath access? Sterile vs aseptic technique? I'm an ER nurse with very little oncology experience.

[GrumpyRN63]

We use sterile technique in my hospital, the only thing that has changed over the years is no longer wearing a mask ( unless pt or you has cough) --esp since their face is so close to the port,] but the kit, gloves,field, huber needles, flushes, all placed w/ sterile technique, in the home everything is clean technique

[iluvivt]

Accessing a port is always always sterile technique, Think about it you are inserting a needle into a septum that is attached to a catheter optimally terminating in the SVC. Ports have an infection rate of about 2 percent . Port pockets and the skin tunnel can also become infected spelling(pocket infection and tunnel infection) These are long term lines that have been surgically placed and should be protected. Also you should wear a mask when accessing with the non-coring needle which can stay in place for 7 days