From the Guidelines
Yes, IV antibiotics can be administered through a chemotherapy port, as these ports are designed to deliver various intravenous medications, including antibiotics, and provide reliable central venous access. A chemotherapy port (also called a port-a-cath or implantable venous access device) can handle most antibiotics that require intravenous administration, such as vancomycin, ceftriaxone, piperacillin-tazobactam, and meropenem, among others 1. When using a port for antibiotics, proper aseptic technique is essential, including thorough cleaning of the port access site with chlorhexidine or alcohol before accessing it with a special non-coring needle (Huber needle).
Some key considerations when administering IV antibiotics through a chemotherapy port include:
- Proper aseptic technique to minimize the risk of infection
- Regular replacement of port needles, with a suggested frequency of at least once-a-week, as recommended for patients on home parenteral nutrition 1
- Flushing the port with normal saline followed by heparin solution after antibiotic administration to prevent clotting and maintain patency
- Monitoring for signs of infection or other complications, such as colonization of administration sets with Candida species, which may be more common in patients receiving parenteral nutrition through a port 1
Using a chemotherapy port for antibiotics is advantageous because it preserves peripheral veins, reduces the need for multiple needle sticks, and allows for reliable delivery of medications that might be irritating to peripheral veins. Overall, the use of a chemotherapy port for IV antibiotic administration can improve patient outcomes by reducing the risk of complications and improving quality of life.
From the Research
Administration of IV Antibiotics through a Chemotherapy Port
- The use of a patient's port as the preferred IV route for administering antibiotics is a topic of discussion, with some experts discouraging its use for treatments other than chemotherapy due to the risk of complications 2.
- There is no direct evidence to support the administration of IV antibiotics through a chemotherapy port, but studies suggest that IV push administration of antibiotics can be a viable option in certain clinical scenarios 3.
- The preparation and administration of IV therapy, including antibiotics, require careful consideration of factors such as aseptic technique, compatibility, stability, and dosage calculations 4.
- The use of ports for IV treatment other than chemotherapy may be associated with a high risk of complications, including loss of the device and difficulties in managing these complications in non-specialty wards 2.
Key Considerations
- The Infusion Nursing Society's Standards of Practice recommend using a patient's port as the preferred IV route, unless contraindicated, but this recommendation is based on expert opinion rather than evidence 2.
- Studies have shown that IV push administration of certain antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone and ertapenem, can be effective and safe 3.
- The administration of antibiotics through a port may require specific protocols to prevent infective and mechanical complications, particularly if the port is used frequently or continuously 2.