What is a key feature of implanted ports regarding their use?

What is a key feature of implanted ports regarding their use?

• A. They are used for short-term therapy.
• B. They require frequent dressing changes.
• C. They reduce the risk of infection.
• D. They are only used in pediatric patients.

Answer: (C)

Implanted ports are designed to be a long-term venous access solution and one of their significant advantages is their ability to reduce the risk of infection. This is primarily due to their subcutaneous placement, which minimizes exposure to potential contaminants found in the external environment, unlike more traditional access methods. This feature is particularly beneficial when considering patients who may require repeated venous access for extended periods, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or long-term antibiotic therapy. Implanted ports typically consist of a small reservoir (the port) that is implanted under the skin and connected to a catheter that resides in a central vein. Since the port is entirely beneath the skin, it has a lower likelihood of developing infections compared to external catheters, which are more exposed. In contrast, implanted ports are not generally suited for short-term therapy; they are intended for long-term use. They also do not require frequent dressing changes as external catheters do, which need regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent complications. Additionally, implanted ports are not limited to pediatric patients but are also widely used in adults, making them versatile for different patient populations.

Implanted ports are designed to be a long-term venous access solution and one of their significant advantages is their ability to reduce the risk of infection. This is primarily due to their subcutaneous placement, which minimizes exposure to potential contaminants found in the external environment, unlike more traditional access methods. This feature is particularly beneficial when considering patients who may require repeated venous access for extended periods, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or long-term antibiotic therapy.

Implanted ports typically consist of a small reservoir (the port) that is implanted under the skin and connected to a catheter that resides in a central vein. Since the port is entirely beneath the skin, it has a lower likelihood of developing infections compared to external catheters, which are more exposed.

In contrast, implanted ports are not generally suited for short-term therapy; they are intended for long-term use. They also do not require frequent dressing changes as external catheters do, which need regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent complications. Additionally, implanted ports are not limited to pediatric patients but are also widely used in adults, making them versatile for different patient populations.