Forum topic

Hello,

Do any of you have experience with Radiologic Technicians accessing implanted ports (mediport, port-a-cath, etc.)? Our radiology department wants their CT techs to receive training to access ports, using this evidence: 

• It is the opinion of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists that based upon current literature, the curricula set forth by ASRT, Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging and the National Educational Curriculum for Sonography, certification examination specifications by the ARRT, NMTCB and CCI, and recommendations by the American College of Radiology and where federal or state law and/or institutional policy permits it is within the scope of practice for medical imaging and radiation therapy professionals to access and administer medications through existing vascular access.

I am very uncomfortable with this, as I am being asked to train these techs. It appears to be within their scope if they have adequate training and competence, but something doesn't feel right about it to me. (Along the lines of just because someone can do something, doesn't mean they should.) In my own experience, the access of ports can be tricky, including putting your patient in multiple positions to obtain blood return.  I am looking for evidence that either strongly supports this practice or supports the practice of trained RNs accessing ports.

Thank you for any information!

Trish Hayes, BSN, RN