Authors (including presenting author) :
Choy YP(1), Lo YK(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital
Introduction :
Implantable venous access ports (IVAPs) are crucial for chemotherapy in oncology patients. In 2023, 16 breakages occurred, including three from our institution. These incidents pose significant risks, such as extravasation and emergency surgeries, highlighting the need for improved patient safety and care.
Objectives :
1. Enhance competence: elevating skills and knowledge in IVAP care 2. Ensure quality and safety: upholding gold standards in patient safety 3. Foster continuous care: promoting seamless and proactive patient management
Methodology :
“CARE” approach Competence (continuity of care) • Workshop: for newly joined medical and nursing staff to build foundational port care knowledge • Video demonstration: to provide visual guidance on proper port care techniques • Return demonstration: to conduct hands-on sessions on patients to assess and certify competence • Educational leaflets: to provide informative care instructions and educate red flags for potential issues to patients Action (Proactive measures) • Risk reviews by radiologists: conduct comprehensive reviews of existing cases to identify potential risks early • Interdisciplinary collaboration: engage medical and nursing staff in managing and monitoring high-risk cases • Port management: advocate for early port removal to prevent complications Reciprocal notification (communication channels) • Shared folder: track port maintenance to ensure compliance across all stakeholders • Awareness initiative: Boost collective awareness and responsiveness to IVIP fractures. • Alert system: Implement efficient information dissemination among all parties. Excellence (governance) • Review and update guidelines: align clinical practice with best practice • Multidisciplinary panel participation: engage with the expert panel at HAHO for recommendations • Continuous feedback loop: incorporate ongoing improvement within the department.
Result & Outcome :
1. Achieved full participation in workshops by medical and nursing staff 2. Completed comprehensive review of all high-risk cases with proactive actions 3. Achieved a significant improvement in staff compliance, with a 90% pass rate on the first competency assessment Conclusion: The “CARE” approach significantly enhances the safety and quality of implanted care. Focusing on continuous education, proactive risk management, and strong governance reduce risks and improve patient outcomes. Collaborative efforts and ongoing evaluation of clinical practices ensure excellence in care for oncology patients reliant on implanted care.
