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Care and management of children with a totally implanted central venous access device: portacath
1Nottingham Children's Hospital, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, England.
Insights
Advances in technology allow children with life-limiting conditions to live longer, often requiring central venous access devices like portacaths. This article discusses their care and management by children
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Medical Technology
- Palliative Care
Background:
- Technological advancements have increased survival rates for children with life-limiting conditions.
- Many children require long-term intravenous access for treatment to maintain quality of life.
- Totally implanted central venous access devices, such as portacaths, are commonly used in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the care and management of portacaths in children.
- To highlight the existing variations in practice across the UK.
- To provide recommendations for standardized and improved clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on the care and management of pediatric portacaths.
- Analysis of current practices and variations in the UK.
- Development of evidence-based recommendations for nursing practice.
Main Results:
- Significant variation exists in the UK regarding the care and management of pediatric portacaths.
- There is a need for standardized protocols to ensure competent practice.
- Nurses require specific skills and training for effective portacath management.
Conclusions:
- Standardized training and clear guidelines are essential for children's nurses managing portacaths.
- Improved practice in portacath care can enhance the well-being and quality of life for children.
- Addressing practice variations is crucial for equitable and effective patient care.
Abstract:
Research and advances in technology have enabled children and young people with life-limiting conditions to live longer. To maintain their well-being and quality of life many of these children usually require some form of intravenous access for treatment. Children's nurses should have the skills and training to ensure they are competent to practise using totally implanted central venous access devices such as portacaths (ports). This article addresses the care and management of these ports in children and the wide variation in practice that exists in the UK, and makes recommendations for practice.
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