How a port is used
A port is accessed with a special angled needle under sterile conditions; it is quick and usually only mildly uncomfortable.
01Short answer
02Simple explanation
Topic. using a port.
Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.
Write down. Your questions.
Overview. The article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
03Scientific explanation
Angled needle: does not cut the septum, so the port lasts.
Checking: if blood does not return, the team looks for the cause.
04What happens in the body?
Using a port
The nurse cleans the skin, feels for the septum and inserts the needle. First the port is checked (blood returns, fluid runs freely). For long infusions the needle is secured with a dressing. At the end the port is flushed. An unused port is flushed from time to time; how often depends on the centre. Ask in advance about numbing cream if you wish.
In more detail
Angled needle: does not cut the septum, so the port lasts. Checking: if blood does not return, the team looks for the cause.
The overview
This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
05Using a port: the steps
Four steps.
06During the procedure
| Feeling | What it may be | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| A brief prick | Normal | Breathe calmly |
| Burning during infusion | Leak | Say so at once |
| Swelling | Leak | Say so at once |
07Key terms
- Huber needle
- A special angled needle for ports.
- Flush
- Rinsing the port with fluid.
08Key points
- Everyone’s plan is individual.
- Write down and bring your questions.
- Report new symptoms early.
- Do not change medicines yourself.
- For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
- Overview: “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
09Frequently asked questions
Can I flush the port myself?
Usually a health professional does it.
Is this the same for everyone?
No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.
Where is the overview?
In the article “Catheters, PICC lines and ports”.
10Questions for your doctor
Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.
Can I flush the port myself?
Is this the same for everyone?
Where is the overview?
12Sources
- MedlinePlus. Central venous catheters – ports
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition of port – NCI Dictionary
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Infection and Neutropenia during Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Drugs Approved for Leukemia
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Diarrhea and Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Depression (PDQ) – Patient Version
- WHO / IARC. WHO Classification of Tumours, 5th edition — Haematolymphoid Tumours
- American Cancer Society. Leukemia in Children
- NHS. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia — Treatment
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Clinical Trials Information for Patients and Caregivers