Written Information Improves Patient Knowledge About Implanted Ports

Background: Implanted ports are frequently used for patients with cancer who require IV chemotherapy. In addition to verbal communication with healthcare providers, patients with cancer may benefit from written information.

Objectives: This pre/post study evaluated the effectiveness of an informational booklet by improving knowledge about ports and assessed the history, need, and preferences for information.

Methods: Patients with cancer who had an implanted port for at least six months were provided with an informational booklet about ports. Knowledge about ports was tested before (T0) and after (T1) patients read the booklet. Information needs and preferred sources of information were also assessed at T0. Patients reported their opinions of the booklet at T1.

Findings: The sample included 129 patients; 49% were male, with a mean age of 59 years. Most patients want to receive as much information as possible, preferably before the port is implanted. However, 43% of patients reported they had received little information about ports. After reading the booklet, patients’ knowledge, which was measured with a validated seven-item instrument, improved from T0 to T1 (p < 0.001, effect size = 0.689). Oncology nurses, by providing written and verbal information, can increase patients’ knowledge about implanted ports and their confidence in caring for their ports.