Nursing management of patients with an implanted Ommaya reservoir

The Ommaya reservoir (NeuroCare Group, Pleasant Prairie, WI) is an implanted ventricular device that permits delivery of drugs directly into the central nervous system (CNS). It is used in the management of patients whose cancer has invaded or may potentially invade the CNS; for pain management; for treatment of CNS infection; for monitoring of CNS pressure; and for cerebrospinal fluid sampling. Nursing care related to the Ommaya reservoir includes assessing patients, providing patient and family education, and, in some situations, accessing the device.