Potential Risks With An Implanted Venous Access Port And Huber Needle

The implanted venous access port device is a drug delivery system for the delivery of fluids, drugs, or for the drawing of blood samples. The device has the capability to be accessed repeatedly with a Huber needle. The venous port consists of an implantable stainless steel port, with a septum that is self-sealing.

The major risk with the implanted port is infection, a bacterial infection can cause the port to have to be removed and can jeopardize the health of the patient. Aseptic technique should always be used when accessing, deaccessing, or dressing the site. Another complication can be the formation of a blood clot in the catheter. The blood clots can block the device. In order to prevent this problem, the catheter is flushed with saline or heparin as ordered by the health care provider or by the protocol of the facility.

The failure of the mechanical device is possible, although extremely unlikely. Usually what happens in this case, is the catheter that is attached to the device breaks away and if this happens, surgery will be necessary to remove the device and catheter. Normally the patient is not aware of this happening, but it is discovered because the port cannot be flushed or blood cannot be withdrawn.

An additional risk that can occur with the use of the device in children, is that as they grow, the device may move. A pneumothorax, which is an injury to the lung, can also occur with the insertion of the device.

Risk involving the Huber needle, starts with the possible needle stick injuries of the clinician because of the sharpness of the needle itself. It is common for there to be a rebound injury because of the unusual force that is needed to push the needle into the elastic septum. This is troublesome because these implanted access ports are often used for Hepatitis B and AIDS patients.

The Huber needles are designed to emphasize safe and effective needle stick protection. The needle has a safety cover that is to be used in order to help prevent needle sticks. The safety cover helps when removing the Huber needle with one hand, while using the other hand to apply pressure to the access site.

The policies and protocols for proper techniques while accessing and deaccessing the port site with a Huber needle, should be followed carefully. If these protocols are not followed, the chances of an infection or other complications rise dramatically. The dressing that is applied after accessing, should also be changed per facility protocol. Safety and following protocol is always the safest way to help prevent these risks from occurring.

The Use Of Huber Needles

There are circumstances that arise when patients need to have a venous access available for such procedures as medications, blood products, drawing of blood, and total parenteral nutrition. Such illnesses as cancer, kidney disease, leukemia or problems that would require more than 6 weeks of venous access, may require the insertion of an implanted device. The venous access ports are surgically implanted in the chest and are accessed through the chest wall with a Huber needle.

The Huber needles are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate different patients. These Huber infusion sets are available from 19g x 3/4" size to 22g x 1" size. The needle set is latex free, so will not be a concern if a patient is admitted with a latex allergy. The fact they have a new needle hub and a wing design, offers greater security and accuracy when accessing the venous port site with the Huber needle. The set has an 11" micro bore tubing with a Y site, for when the patient is connected to infusions. This makes it more convenient for the patient and the nurses. These Huber needles come 25/box.

Always follow the protocol of the facility when using the implanted central port. Aseptic technique should always be used when caring for or accessing the venous port. The port should only be accessed by a registered nurse or physician. A Huber needle can be left in place for as long as 7 days after insertion, if there are no complications.

Prior to accessing the port with the Huber needle, always wash your hands with antibacterial soap and put on sterile medical gloves. Palpate the patient's chest in order to locate the needle port. Usually you can easily feel the port under the skin. Approximately the size of a quarter, the port will feel firm around the edges with a soft spongy center. After locating the port, follow the protocol of the facility, prepare a clean work area, prepare the Huber needle, clean the port site, insert the Huber needle and secure and cover the needle and site. Always document the gauge and length of the Huber needle used for access in the medical record.

One of the biggest benefits is that the implanted venous port allows for long term access and has the lowest incidence of blood borne infections. Although the port may have been inserted for the patient to receive chemotherapy, it can also be used for other things, such as antibiotics or blood. After use of the port is completed, remove the Huber needle per protocol. Again, always use sterile technique, flush the port per protocol, before you remove the needle.

The complications of the implanted port can include infiltration, skin breakdown, infection, occlusions, thrombus formation or catheter fracture. After assessing the port site, notify the physician and do not access the port if the site is red, tender, swelled or warm to touch.

The Huber needle is the only needle that is used to access the implanted venous port. Always check the site per facility protocol as long as the site is accessed with the Huber needle. Always use sterile technique when accessing or discontinuing a Huber needle, this cannot be stressed enough. The central venous implanted port allows the patient more freedom with daily life and is easy to maintain for hospital or home therapy.