Authors

  1. Nailon, Regina E. PhD, RN
  2. Rupp, Mark E. MD
  3. Lyden, Elizabeth MS

Abstract

Patients are increasingly receiving therapy at home via central vascular access devices (CVADs). Limited data exist regarding patients' experiences with outpatient CVADs. This study characterized outpatient CVAD care via 14-day patient diaries. Information included location, frequency, and purpose of CVAD access episodes and who performed CVAD care. Across all patients, 77% of care was provided in the patient's home compared with other sites. Home care was provided via self-care (48%), by a family member/caregiver (25%), or by a nurse (27%). Flushing the device was the most frequent reason for device access (52%). An occlusion rate of 9.57 per 1000 device days was also noted. Further examination of CVAD maintenance and patient/care provider education is warranted.