[Mtngrl]

Two more "no port" advantages: On another forum, a member posted about her port getting infected. She had to be hospitalized. She had to learn to "pack" the wound once the infected port was removed. I don't think a simple venipuncture ever leads to that kind of consequence (granted that it's rare, in any event.)

Also, Wednesday I learned that where I'm treated people with ports have experienced delays waiting for RNs to access their ports to do blood draws. We go to one place for that, wait an hour, see a doctor or NP, and then go to the infusion center (so I get stuck twice every time I have treatment). Again, just a venipuncture is something a technician can do--no RN required. I get in and out of the blood draw place with no delay.

Not saying it's "better" or should be what everyone does. Just saying there are pros and cons. Once I finally get a port I'll probably wonder why I waited so long.

Amy