What action should the nurse implement when accessing an implanted infusion port for a client who receives long-term IV medications?

What action should the nurse implement when accessing an implanted infusion port for a client who receives long-term IV medications?

• A. Insert a straight-gauge needle
• B. Insert a Huber-point needle
• C. Use a butterfly needle
• D. Remove the port and re-implant

Answer: (B)

Accessing an implanted infusion port requires a non-coring needle specifically designed for this purpose. The Huber-point needle has a deflected, non-cutting tip that punctures the silicone septum without removing or cutting material, which helps preserve the port’s integrity and longevity and minimizes trauma to the septum. When accessing, the nurse cleanly punctures the port dome at about a 90-degree angle and then administers the medications or flushes the line, following sterile technique and the facility’s protocol. Using a straight-gauge needle can damage the septum by coring it, creating leaks or port failure. A butterfly needle isn’t designed for implanted ports and doesn’t provide a secure, stable access point. Removing the port is not an action taken for routine access.

Accessing an implanted infusion port requires a non-coring needle specifically designed for this purpose. The Huber-point needle has a deflected, non-cutting tip that punctures the silicone septum without removing or cutting material, which helps preserve the port’s integrity and longevity and minimizes trauma to the septum. When accessing, the nurse cleanly punctures the port dome at about a 90-degree angle and then administers the medications or flushes the line, following sterile technique and the facility’s protocol.

Using a straight-gauge needle can damage the septum by coring it, creating leaks or port failure. A butterfly needle isn’t designed for implanted ports and doesn’t provide a secure, stable access point. Removing the port is not an action taken for routine access.