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Caring for an Implanted Port (Online Curriculum)

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Caring for an Implanted Port builds on foundational knowledge presented in PHS' IV Basics course. Completion of IV Basics is strongly recommended before taking this course.

This interactive, narrated, self-paced online course focuses on how to care for adult and pediatric patients with an implanted port. There is an emphasis on the home care environment. 

Topics include

  • Implanted port components and types of implanted ports
  • Implanted port placement
  • Proper technique for accessing an implanted port
  • Proper technique for deaccessing an implanted port
  • Implanted port flushing
  • Troubleshooting potential complications
  • Patient education

An optional, in-classroom lab for hands-on time is available. The optional lab takes place at Pediatric Home Service in Roseville, Minnesota. NOTE: This is not a competency. Each employer is responsible for ensuring their staff’s competence at managing an implanted port.

1.5 contact hours will be awarded to online class participants.

Criteria for successful completion to receive 1.5 contact hours

  • Completion of all course modules
  • Achieving a passing score of 85% on post-test  
  • Completion and submission of evaluation form

There is no conflict of interest for anyone with the ability to control content of this activity

This nursing continuing professional development activity was approved by the Ohio Nurses Association, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation (OBN-001-91). Activity Number 2020-0000001000. Expiration date 2/23/2023.

Objectives: Upon completion of the presentation the participant will be able to

  1. Identify the components of an implanted port.
  2. Demonstrate proper techniques for accessing, flushing, and deaccessing an implanted port.
  3. Describe a typical flushing protocol for an implanted port.
  4. Discuss methods for troubleshooting an implanted port.
  5. Identify potential complications associated with an implanted port.
  6. Discuss patient/caregiver education necessary for maintaining an implanted port in home care setting.

Course authors: Jean Stumpf, BSN, CRNI and Jill Wall, BSN, CRNI