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Updated: Oct 27, 2025

A Murine Model of Hemodialysis Access-Related Hand Dysfunction
Published on: May 31, 2022
'Pinholes in my arms': the vicious cycle of vascular access
Linda J Kelly1, Austyn Snowden2
1International Clinical Educator, Vygon, Swindon.
Background:
Vascular access devices (VADs) are essential for delivery of intravenous therapies. There are notable gaps in the literature regarding a focus on patient experience and meaning-making related to living with a VAD, specifically a central venous access device (CVAD).
Aims:
To explore how patients make sense of living with a CVAD.
Methods:
This study followed an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach. Purposive sampling was used to identify 11 cancer patients who had a CVAD in situ. One-to-one semi-structured interviews were performed. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed by the lead author.
Findings:
Four superordinate themes were identified: the self under attack; being rescued/being robbed; protection of others/protection of self; bewilderment and dismay at lack of staff competence.
Conclusion:
Having a CVAD affects the psychological, social, and personal self and impacts on self-esteem and self-image. Despite this, CVADs are accepted by patients and are eventually 'embodied' by them.
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