Care and maintenance of a port

The type of implanted port can be distinguished by checking the following:

• Check for identification and documentation in patient’s case notes for the insertion of a port (patient record sticker).
• Identify the site of placement of the port (chest or arm).
• Palpate sides of the port to identify the type of port (see identification of a PowerPort in Figures 1a & 1b below).

The port can be used after 24 hours but this will depend on the inflammation and pain around the site, however most often the port will be rested for 7-14 days depending on healing, prior to using. The insertion site will be closed with either surgical glue or steri-strips, this should have a dry dressing in place. Patients should be advised not to bathe this area until healing is complete, to minimize the risk of infection. These dressings / steri-strips should be assessed within 24 hours and can be left for 1 week or until the wound is healed.

Prior to accessing the port, the position of the port should be identified by palpating the port and checking the contour. Port access is performed by percutaneous needle insertion using a port needle. Check port insertion notes within the patients case notes to establish what size of port needle is required.