Implanted Port Care for Chemotherapy: Care Instructions

Overview

An implanted port is a device that's placed, in most cases, under the skin of your chest below your collarbone. The port is about the size of a quarter, but thicker. A thin, flexible tube runs from the port under your skin into a large vein.

The port can be used to give medicine, fluids, or nutrients. The port may also be used to draw blood for tests. An implanted port can be used for months. You will learn how to care for your device so it doesn't get infected or blocked.

Tell your doctor if you take aspirin or some other blood thinner. These medicines can increase the chance of bleeding. Also tell your doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you take. Some may increase the risk of problems when you have one of these devices.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• You will probably need to take 1 day off from work and will be able return to normal activities shortly after. This depends on the type of work you do, why you have the port, and how you feel.
• You probably will be able to bathe and swim. Talk to your doctor about any limits on your activity.
• Do not wear clothing that rubs the skin over the port.
• Your port will need regular flushing to keep it open. Your care team will do this for you.
• Carry a medical alert card with you, and consider wearing a medical alert bracelet. These will tell health care providers you have a port in case you need emergency care.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have trouble breathing.
• You have pain or swelling in your neck or arm.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness near the port.
  • Red streaks leading from the port.
  • Pus draining from the port.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems with your port.