Optimizing vascular access for patients receiving intravenous systemic therapy for early-stage breast cancer-a survey of oncology nurses and physicians.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite advances in systemic therapy choices for patients with early-stage breast cancer, optimal practices for intravenous (IV) access remain unknown. That lack of knowledge holds particularly true for the use of central venous access devices (cvads) such as peripherally inserted central catheters (piccs) and implanted vascular access devices (ports).

Methods

Using a survey of Canadian oncologists and oncology nurses responsible for the care of breast cancer patients, we evaluated current access practices, perceptions of complications, and perceptions of risk, and we estimated complication rates and evaluated perceived risk factors for lymphedema.

Results

Survey responses were received from 25 physicians and 57 oncology nurses. Administration of trastuzuma

SUBMITTER: LeVasseur N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6092058 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature