My New Portacath

[okwilk213]

Hello All

I am new to this board. I am an RN, graduated in 1981. Feb 17 2006 diagnosed with breast cancer, 1.5 cm tumor, negative nodes. Cells are aggressive, so after my lumpectomy, my doc decided I needed 4 cycles of chemo before starting radiation and Herceptin. I have had my first cycle 3 weeks ago, and my portacath inserted last Friday. I was surprised how much post op pain I have had with the cath, not unbearable but certainly needing a Lortab now and then. Achy and burning feeling. Anyway, last night I noticed that the skin over the top of the round portion of the port (Try not to laugh, I am not an Ocology nurse, and God Bless those of you who are! ) is now pink. Do I need to worry at all? I am not scheduled to see anyone until the next cemo this coming Friday.

Thanks

[UM Review RN, ASN, RN]

Welcome to Allnurses, okwilk~

We're usually very happy to answer questions here, but we can't really give answers that could be construed as diagnoses. As a nurse, I'm confident that you understand that.

I can only suggest that if you have a concern with your port-a-cath, as with any other medical situation, that you contact your healthcare provider and have it checked out.

And please, come back and post often. We're always here for you:icon_hug:and we can offer up moral support like crazy.

[okwilk213]

Thanks...I understand you can't diagnose...but I just wanted an opinion as I have not cared for anyone's portacath before, and I don't know if pink skin over the port area is normal or not. They didn't get specific on my go home sheet and it is 88 miles one way to get to the clinic...I wanted to avoid an extra trip if possible.