A Questionnaire-based Assessment of the Anxiety, Satisfaction and Discomfort Experienced by Japanese Cancer Patients during the Use of Central Venous Ports.

Objective A significant number of Japanese cancer patients refuse to have central venous (CV) ports implanted. The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences of patients prior to and after CV port implantation, as well as their expectations regarding the use of CV ports. Methods This study was carried out at Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases from October 20, 2014, to January 16, 2015. Data were collected using a questionnaire developed by the researchers, and various statistical analyses were performed. Results Among the 50 patients who participated in this study, the CV port was implanted due to poor venous access in 18 (36%). The proportion of patients who were anxious before the port implantation was significantly higher among the patients in whom CV ports were implanted due to poor venous access than among those in whom CV ports were implanted for other reasons. All patients exhibited high satisfaction levels, regardless of the reason for CV port implantation. CV port-related discomfort was most commonly associated with seat belts. Conclusion The patients exhibited high satisfaction levels regardless of the reason for CV port implantation. However, the patients that exhibited poor venous access often experienced anxiety before the implantation of the port, so it is important to provide such patients with sufficient information prior to port implantation. In order to improve the quality of life of patients with CV ports, medical staff should give special consideration to discomfort experienced by patients that are wearing seat belts.