SUBCUTANEOUS VENOUS RESERVOIR MANAGEMENT BY NURSING STAFF

INTRODUCIION. Subcutaneous venous reservoirs (SVR) is a useful alternative to chronic or long-term venous access. It has been observed that newly incorporated nurses and summer-time substitutes confront higher difficulties in SVR management due to: frequent changes in hospital staff, lack of previous knowledge and/or coexistence of different protocols. Developing a common protocol could help to reduce possible complications related to SVR management. OBJECTIVES. To improve knowledge and information dissemination on SVR with the aim of easing SVR management for nursing staff; to unify the SVR management criteria providing resources to solve most frequent complications and problems derived from it; and to learn about proper application and removal of elastomeric infusion pumps (continuous perfusion pumps for chemotherapy). METHODS. A task force conformed by experienced nurses was established, which conducted a detailed literature review to summarize all available relevant evidence. The most salient aspects on SVR management were identified, unifying criteria through agreement by all task force members. During the last stage of the assessment, a clinical practice guideline was proposed. RESULT'S. A guideline based on unified criteria for SVR management was developed.. CONCLUSION. A standardized guideline for SVR management increases knowledge on puncture technique and sealing procedures, improving nursing staff quality and security while handling these devices. A reduction in clinical practice variability improves safety and diminishes patients' anxiety.