I'm reviewing our Implanted Port Use and Care policy which currently states that if the non-coring needle does not touch the port base upon accessing (i.e. is too short) and patency check confirms blood return - the short needle set can be used to draw lab samples and flush/lock the port - but must not remain in the patient and cannot be used for infusion of medication.
There are no citations referenced for this guideline. Can a too short port needle be used in the way described above?
Appreciate the feedback.
A needle that is too short has an increased risk of infiltration/extravasation. If you can aspirate and inject through it (many times a short needle does not even clear the septum), then draw blood sample or flush but I would never give any meds through it. Stability of all port needles is a critical issue, so too long can also be a problem.
Lynn Hadaway, M.Ed., RN, NPD-BC, CRNI
Lynn Hadaway Associates, Inc.
PO Box 10
Milner, GA 30257
Website http://www.hadawayassociates.com
Office Phone 770-358-7861
Thank you!