ABSTRACT: Commonly used in human oncology to administer chemotherapy, vascular access ports (VAPs) are becoming increasingly popular in veterinary medicine. VAPS are now frequently used in specialist hospitals when caring for critically ill patients or for those receiving frequent treatment, such as chemotherapy.

VAPs provide numerous benefits, such as reducing problems when administrating pharmaceuticals and drawing blood samples, preventing damage to the peripheral vessels and decreasing patient discomfort. This article outlines the nursing considerations when handling patients with access ports and the advantages and disadvantages of placing VAPs in patients undergoing chemotherapy and critical care.

Author

Sarah Holliday RQVN C&GCertens

Qualified in 2008 and is a proud member of the nursing team of Fitzpatrick Referrals. She is the Senior Medical Oncology Nurse at Fitzpatrick Referrals’ Oncology and Soft Tissue hospital, a state-of-the-art veterinary oncology centre in Surrey. Sarah has a keen interest in oncology and palliative care. Email: sarahholliday24@gmail.com

Keywords:Clinical, Critical care, Chemotherapy

To cite this article: Veterinary Nursing Journal • VOL 32 (05) • May 2017 pp136-139

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