Patient satisfaction and acceptance of their totally implanted central venous catheter: a French prospective...

Most cancer patients require a totally implanted central venous catheter (TIVAD) for their treatment. In a previous study, we developed and validated a questionnaire dubbed QASICC (Questionnaire for Acceptance of, and Satisfaction with, Implanted Central Venous Catheter) assessing patient satisfaction with, and acceptance of, their TIVAD. In the present study, we conducted a large, prospective, multicenter study in cancer patients aimed to analyze factors that could influence patients' acceptance of, and satisfaction with, their device.

The QASICC is composed of 22 items assessing 5 dimensions. The construction and validation of the questionnaire was achieved using validated methodology to determine its psychometric characteristics. The questionnaire was submitted to 720 patients in 11 French institutions; 567 answers were analyzed.

Younger patients had the most difficulties in coping with their TIVAD, especially regarding daily activities and their body image and private life compared to older patients. Sex was significantly related to patient satisfaction, with worse scores in women. Breast tumor location was also correlated with low TIVAD acceptance. TIVAD on the right side also positively influenced satisfaction and acceptance of the device.

QASICC has proved to be efficient, and to detect known issues regarding daily activities and body image. As our population was mostly composed of women with breast cancer, our results reflect specific aspects of this population. The TIVAD remains generally well-accepted and our questionnaire should help health-care workers to better address the specific needs of their patients based on the answers provided.