Page 233 - 2023 SMOG Digital

Procedure for implanted catheter (Port-a-Cath, P.A.S. port, Medi-port):

• Prepare all necessary equipment:
o Non-coring, right angle needle specific for implanted vascular access ports
o 2-3 10mL prefilled syringes of 0.9% NaCl
o Sterile infusion port cap
o Sterile gloves (if available)
o Sterile occlusive dressing large enough to completely cover the insertion site
• Identify the access site; usually located in the chest.
• Vigorously cleanse the cap of the lumen with chlorhexidine or 70% alcohol prep pad,
allow to dry.
• Attach the infusion port cap to the end of the non-coring, right angle needle tubing.
• Prime the non-coring needle with attached tubing with saline using one of the prefilled
10ml syringes. Leave the syringe attached to the tubing.
• Palpate the port to determine the size and center of the device.
• Secure the access point port firmly between two fingers and firmly insert the non-coring
needle into the port, entering at a direct 90° angle.
• Aspirate 3–5mL of blood with the syringe.
o If unable to aspirate blood, re-clamp the catheter and do not attempt further use
o Asking the patient to cough may facilitate access of the port
• Flush the catheter with 3–5mL 0.9% NaCl using a prefilled 10mL syringe.
o If catheter does not flush easily, do not attempt further use
• Attach IV administration set and observe for free flow of IV fluid.
o Utilizing an IV pump, set the flow rate based on the patient condition and IAW
SMOG
• Cover the needle and insertion site with the sterile occlusive dressing.
Document procedure, results, and vital signs.

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