IV Services Newsletter
January 2016
All you need to know about Port-A-Cath's
Single-Lumen PowerPort
- Unique triangular shape
- Soft palpitation bumps on septum
- Power injectable
Double-Lumen PowerPort
- Soft palpitation bumps on septum
- Power injectable
- The letters CT will show up on X-Ray
Single and Double-Lumen Ports
- Circular in shape
- NOT power injectable
Caring for a Port-A-Cath
Port-A-Caths should be assessed for blood return upon access and with intermittent use to ensure patency. If blood return is not present or cannot not be established, a doctor must be notified for an order to use the line. The physician may also request to have the line declotted with TPA. TPA of a port is done by an IV Services Team member.
Communication: Bedside RN to IV RN
- Type of port (Mediport or PowerPort)
- Length of needle that patient typically requires
- Adhesive allergies
- MD order to access port
Ports should be entered into the EHR by adding a Structured Notes Entry and choosing the Vascular Access Port option. If this is not done correctly IV Services will not know about the port.
If a port dressing becomes soiled or loose or a port needs to be discontinued during the hours of 0700-2200, please page IV Services and enter a Line management order.
Flushing Protocol
After Medication: 10 mL saline flush
After Lab Draw: 20 mL saline flush
Catheter Maintenance: 10 mL saline flush prior to heparin AND maintain with 5mL heparin (100 units/mL) every 4 weeks
Deaccessing Implanted Ports: Prior to deaccessing follow proper catheter maintenance then flush port with 5 mL heparin (100 units/mL)
*If provider wishes for heparin to be used more often, they must specify per provider order.
*Do not use heparin if contraindicated for the patient.
*NEVER use less than a 10 mL syringe on a port.