2Ege University Tülay Aktaş Oncology Hospital, Oncology Division, İzmir
3Ege University School of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, İzmir, all in Turkey OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of cancer patients regarding the implantable port catheter.
METHODS
This descriptive study was carried out at a large university
hospital in İzmir. The convenience sample consisted of 96
cancer patients who were administered chemotherapy via a
port catheter. Data were collected using a researcher-developed
questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics
and Pearson correlation test.
RESULTS
Of the 96 cancer patients who participated in the study, 56.3%
were female, 57.3% were 39-59 years of age, 29.2% had completed
primary school education, 83.3% were unemployed, and
43.7% had a gastrointestinal system cancer. In this study, the
port catheter was implanted due to long-term continuous intravenous
therapy. The correct response rate for the port questionnaire,
on average, was 54.1% (±34.42). When the knowledge
scores were analyzed according to patients' background characteristics,
the only significant relationship determined was
between knowledge scores and the time of catheter placement.
CONCLUSION
This study revealed that cancer patients have insufficient knowledge
about the port catheter. We suggest that a protocol for use of
the port system should be developed, and written material, such
as in brochure form, should be prepared according to the patient's
treatment plan. The brochure should be provided to patients
in addition to verbal information regarding the port catheter.