HOW TO ACCESS A PORT-A-CATH (IMPLANTED PORT)

Here's a step by step process for accessing and de-accessing a port. This is a monthly flush, but we also put a sterile dressing on for the purpose of showing how we have found the best way to have a smooth application of the dressing. We take time to show you the proper way to stay sterile, and little tips and tricks we have learned during the ten years that I have been independent with my port care.
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[@Schuulgurl]

I'm a doctor and honestly I think this has been one of the best teaching experiences I've had with had with a port! Thanks guys

[@nickiea3015]

Can’t imagine having support like this from another human.

[@laurengeddis4743]

As a nurse, I just want to say, this is an amazing video/tutorial. You all are beautiful and amazing. Seriously, AMAZING! I have to access a port next week, never done before. And after watching your video, I feel so much more confident. You guys are amazing.

[@AmberCanaan727]

I think you two gave a much better demonstration on this than I received as a nurse! Wish I would have had something like this when I was learning to access ports 15 years ago!

[@CartB0X]

and a much friendlier way to learn too! =D

[@chempanda6388]

I'm watching this cause I didnt get a lot of exposure to it in person

[@steffennijhuis4143]

jacco nouwen (28-12-1968)

[@teresapoo73]

Hello! I'm an ER nurse about to learn port access for my job and came across your video. I haven't watched any of your other videos yet but I have subscribed to The Frey Life. I don't see a lot of CF patients but I see a lot of young people who really struggle with managing chronic illness. I will certainly be sharing your channel as a resource to help patients cope. Your commitment to your wellness is unfortunately rare and absolutely inspirational. Thanks for putting it out there.

[@thefreylife]

Hi there! Thanks so much for saying hi and becoming a part of The Frey Life family!

[@carasmussen27]

mine is a BARD Power Port. My husband has to de-access when i am done with my pump injection of chemotherapy. So far no issues with the port. Good for people to watch and know what we go through even though we are a little different. I have not used numbing cream either. The pain is so minor it isn't worth the trouble. I flush twice with saline and once with heparin.

[@chrisshirley4877]

Thank you guys for helping us understand these things. I'm having a port installed next week to accommodate my chemotherapy. You have helped ease my anxiety tremendously. I love that you have taken your misfortune and turned it into a mission of mercy for the rest of us who are about to undergo the same type of thing. Bless you both.

[@rolandonunez6887]

Thanks for the video. I'm an RN in procedural dept. Recently, we've had to access ports for Pet scans. Our kits don't have sterile saline syringes. Your video helped me come up with a new way of accessing without having 2nd RN. Thank you. I hope your well.

[@djlawlz4041]

I had no idea until now but once the sterile field gets wet it is no longer sterile. This video is SUPER informative and a super friendly tutorial. Thank you for making it!

[@lisadelucenay665]

I think its AWESOME that you are doing a video like this. Its educational for people & people are naturally curious & wonder about this kind of stuff all the time. I understand what your going thru as far as ports & pick lines. I have had 3 pick lines, 1 central line & 2 power ports. I hope all goes well for you! God Bless!

[@tanyagsw7920]

I don't have a port but my husband (who passed away in 2013 from cancer) did I never had to access it but just watching this brings back a lot of bittersweet memories. My husband used to taste the salons when flushing and he hated it but candy always helped. I also remember the numbing cream and the smell of the tegaderm

[@tanyagsw7920]

saline not salons lol

[@lindsykolb7887]

A

[@oddtoast2.040]

Omg sooo sorry for you

[@jessicajarsak7812]

I taste the saline too. It never tastes any better each time. Thankfully, I basically flush once a month and only ever use it every 5-6 months for bloodwork and infusions. This MRi was without contrast so I don’t have to access for contrast. I love my port. I live with MS and a hard stick so I asked my primary for a port and he referred me to a surgeon. Yes, Everything smells hospitaly and sterile. I don’t use the tagaderm that comes in the kit, I have to use one for sensitive skin and I use skin prep. Anything else and I will be itchy and start getting red on the skin. I maintain my own port now for several months. So much easier to do it myself.

[@michelletodd3338]

I am a vascular access nurse for 21 years and have certifications CRNI, VA-BC Video extremely well explained and correct. I am very impressed, and the details they give are exactly what one needs for success and understanding. Comments: the edges of the tegaderm referred to as gauze are just reinforced edges that are supposed to allow better adhesion, they are not actually gauze. It is very helpful to see it in this video since it is so true that the type that works best is patient specific. There are many brands of huber as she described and a "gripper" is just a brand of huber. She correctly describes the difference between a regular pre filled saline flush that has a sterile fluid path and cap and a sterile field flush that actually has a sterile outside and is meant for placing on a sterile field and using with sterile gloves.(it says on the wrapper) It is advisable to place needle and tubing exactly where you want it to be as rotating the needle after accessed could core the port.

[@rdidri]

So glad I found this! I just had my port placed this morning (site is sore-ugh), but you handled the whole thing with such ease and humor. It really decreased my anxiety about the whole thing. Thanks!

[@balckbettystack]

I'm getting a port put in in two days time and I can't wait. My veins are so shot from IV's every few months and more often for the last 19 years that they even have great difficulty with ultrasound.

[@Grim_Cyanide]

no idea why its in my reccomended but very informational and i learned a lot from this video,

[@madeibarkley3826]

JTGinHD same

[@olivenyes]

Wow! I have never had such a nice dressing change. What a service this video provides! I can attest that if the needle is not in the port and the tobra just runs in there will be much screaming. Also NEVER force the flush. I had a blood clot in my port that a nurse flushed by force. I nearly died from total obstruction to my superior vena cava. Mary, when your port was not working a few months ago I was really worried for you. I was really glad that they easily fixed it for you.

[@benjomacc]

My 6 year old is having a port put in soon, very educational video for a parent with a child that has CF. Many thanks as learnt some good technical terms to use when we visit for it. Hope your feeling well!

[@thefreylife]

+BeNjO Macc I hope it will be a great fit for you guys! I have been so glad I have my port!

[@DottyGale8]

I hope your son is doing well. 😊

[@raisinghopelove140]

The Frey Life A

[@zoelynn69]

You guys are the cutest I love your spirit. I pray that God continues to Bless you with Health and Prosperity.

[@megawiz1017]

Lol I don't even have a port but I watched this anyway because well...... I love watching all your vids

[@gaelleandireland700]

Same

[@videocrazy7513]

Same

[@samyf1820]

Megawiz101 ilu

[@tashiamavretic2262]

Megawiz101 fhfhgfjghghhjjjghgghhhhghfhghgghhghggghhhghgjghhhhhhhhhhhhghghfhghhftuuuuhhhhhhhhhhhhhghghgff

[@ciannamccoy6253]

I love watching her. She reminds me of my daughter who also is in her 20s.

[@biohazardgirl7465]

high five to ports!! I have a power port and boy is it nice. I haven't even had THAT much poking yet in my arms but my veins have developed crazy scar tissue so for my next CT scan I hope they just use my port :)

[@brendametube]

WOW! As Mary always says..."This is real life people!". You guys really know your stuff when it comes to sterile technique and port care! I was first a phlebotomist for 2 years, then a surgical technologist and an instructor for surgical technology for 15 years. In my 17 years in the medical field I've seen some pretty bad sterile technique:( You two on the other hand are the exact opposite and I would've been privileged and honored to have taught with you or to of had a student who "got it" when it came to sterile technique, the way you guys get it. Seriously, I watched the other video of Peter back to Singapore a long time and I was very impressed. You both are more conscientious, and demonstrate better technique then several of the nurses and doctors that I have worked with. Once again to quote Mary and Peter too…, "just sayin" Love you 3!!!

[@brendametube]

Lolol!!! "back to Singapore quote was supposed to say, "accessing your port"… Ha ha Ha ha ha!

[@thefreylife]

+brendametube I was wondering! HaHAHA! New CF term...time to go "Back to Singapore"...aka Time to access my port!

[@brendametube]

+The Frey Life OX LOL Singa"port" Love you 3!

[@thefreylife]

HaHA! Nice

[@ReineDeLaSeine14]

I actually banned a nurse from working with me for not using alcohol to scrub the clave before hooking up...she even had a student and had to admit she broke protocol! A few of my friends have died from septic line infections.

[@ivyedan7183]

I have a port a Cath.. it's accessed every 4 weeks.. I love it.. I would love to do it myself however my health team said no Thanks for being so informative..I recommend a port to anyone.. one stick and that's it

[@lolstrass]

I'm a 16 yrs french girl and have this dream since I'm little to cure all the cancers and schizophrenia for some reasons! lol don't know and today still do research even if i'm not a doctor or anything! lol So i wanted to tell you that i love your videos they are really interesting and learn you a lot of things it help to see cancer from the patient view so doctors can make some things better for you! Also loved to see that your husband is really supportive and help physically and mentally. Anyway i wanted to tell you thank you guys for all your positivity and strength!!! :) (sorry for my bad english i'm not fluent)

[@mariellehaid7736]

You go girl! Make your dreams a reality. You may save lives in your future!

[@brittanyBSBbabe]

My dad has lung cancer and has a port for his chemo. I’ve been so curious on how they work it. He’s tried to explain but I like visuals so I thank you so much for educating me :)

[@daniellemichelle7951]

I am 19 with cystic fibrosis, i just got admitted into the hospital yesterday and got a portacath today!! I was pretty excited about it because they've had so much trouble with picc lines the last couple of times. I've been watching the Frey life for a few months and I just love following you!

[@thefreylife]

+danielle michelle Hi There! I'm sorry to hear that you are in the hospital, but yay for getting a port! I think you will love it! I am so pleased with mine! Hang in there and keep up the good work of taking the best care of yourself you possibly can!

[@abbytamer8530]

my favorite dressing is balsamic vinaigrette

[@DreamVintagewithDJ]

😂

[@amburritoflorez1757]

Mine too!

[@jocelin8472]

Abby Tamer omgggggg

[@neverwithoutnalani]

Mine is ranch... I'm a Michigan kid

[@patriciafarrelly454]

Really!!! You people are rude have respect for people who have to live there life and make these choices if things like dressing needle types ect make life a little easier on them fantastic. Also sharing there journey with us is great if you can’t say anything positive or inspiring just don’t say anything at all!!! Simple

[@johncross29]

VERY IMPORTANT: Sterility was broken when the sterile field got wet. When you flush the tubing and needle prior to insertion, do that over a trash can or something. If the sterile field gets when, it is considered contaminated. Bacteria from the table are permeable to the paper. I appreciate your video though. thanks, John, ER Registered Nurse

[@jillnurse]

true. RN of over 40 years. the sterility of the field was broken due to the saline

[@sublimedoll4066]

John Cross interesting to know. I'm a brand new medical assistant and hopefully going to nursing soon. Thank you!

[@kimvu1112]

Drone Props lol you won’t be saying that if you’re in a hospital with no doctors around and only nurses to help you

[@knuddelkatze452]

Drone Props You must be one of the lucky ones who never had to stay in a hospital for a longer amount of time because you don't seem to know anything about a nurse's work! Hm🤔 - why are you a smart a.. about it then? When my dad and my aunt died from cancer in the hospital i really appreciated how helpful, nice and competent the nurses were! I hope you never need them this bad!

[@MiMi5789MiMi]

Drone Props dude no! Nurses do all the damn work tbh I’ve been in n out of hospitals my whole life each stay being 3-12 days a few times a year! Nurses do all the dirty work doctors just place orders n wake you up early af asking a million questions n listening to ur lungs nurses draw blood give meds and make u feel better the doc just orders the meds n makes sure u don’t get worse but a nurse will be on a doctors ass if a patient is saying it isn’t working they will make sure something else is done! 80% of them atleast go above n beyond I have only had a few who dnt go the extra mile

[@ninasuzette2782]

That was the best video ever! Thanks for teaching us in a fun and casual way that we need not be afraid of ports. Independence is SO important.

[@krb6236]

I have to thank you for this video! I am a CFer too, I watched it about 30 minutes ago and de-accessed my port for the first time by myself! I appreciate the tutorial ;)

[@thefreylife]

Woohoo! Way to go Kacey! I'm so glad our video could help give you the confidence to do it!

[@BobbieDeming]

Awesome!!!

[@sukijohnson5398]

May God hold you in the palm of His hand, Mary! When I'm going through tough times with my health problems, or other hard things, too, I close my eyes & visualize myself in the palm of God's hand, & it makes me feel so loved, & so comforted...I hope it can give you that love & comfort, too. Feel better!

[@katietaylor5330]

hi! im a 15 year old girl with cystic fibrosis and i find this video VERY helpful. its great to see someone so positive about their condition and i love it ^^ i myself also have a bf named peter and he's willing to help with all of this medication. these videos are also educational yo him too. it helps him understand and he has a good interest in your videos. i cant wait to see more from you! ☺ breath easy 💜

[@StefanieRoyMusic]

Good for you and Peter. :) Keep smiling!

[@lukeeeeehd6318]

I have cystic fibrosis and I’m always positive. I was going to have a port but I react to pick lines so all of my family is nervous. Is it worth having?? Im also 15

[@lemonpotato5267]

DubstaCat 666 omg it's so so worth it, I have cf too and I'm 15 I got my port when I was 11 honestly best decision I ever made. Cannula's (I think they're the same thing as pic lines but in Ireland we call them cannulas lol) they would make my hands swell up and go all red and blotchy the pain was awful god I don't miss those days haha . My port is in my arm not my chest because my doctor said for girls sometimes the arm is better, I get mine flushed in the hospital once a month. The needle going in doesn't really hurt and it's over in a second. I could go on about this for hours but please please get a port I PROMISE you will not regret it. And don't be nervous it's going to be amazing 😊💜

[@oddtoast2.040]

@Ciara O'Neill Ikr ports are so much better, I have a port in my chest though, ports are better because you can do cartwheels tumblers gymnastics an even more! That’s just my opinion but what is yours? What do you like about your port?

[@notcutiexbunny]

You’re super! Thank you for doing this educational video! Keep smiling 😍😍

[@voteblue9579]

OMG! How facinating! You're blessed to have a hubby that has the knowledge and skills to be able to help you with this. I had an infected wound just under my belly button, after a surgery. It needed to be packed with gauze, for weeks. I wouldn't let my hubby touch me. I was afraid he would hurt me. I'm sure I should have let him do it. I think he would have done a better job.

[@kimzo2787]

watched you today as I needed to brush up my port access skills, long time nurse. You guys are adorable. Thanks for the lesson. :)

[@thefreylife]

Oh so glad to be able to help out :)

[@hayleysouness6909]

I love you guys home video it has given me the idea to do my own home port flash getting monthly kits for the port

[@tophsmommy]

I love this! I am graduating nursing school in Dec. Port access is not something they really teach us anymore because most hospitals have super users or teams of people that do this. Your understanding or sterile fielding and port access is beyond impressive. You guys are SUPER awesome! You are an amazing and an inspiring couple. I wonder is a biopatch would work better than your gauze?

[@MiniDress360]

Corey Jennifer Joyce I'm super excited. I'm due to start studying nursing in January. I can't wait.

[@tophsmommy]

MiniDress360 OH That is so Awesome! Don't forget a couple really important things: 1) Breathe....always breathe the answer will come to you. 2) Don't forget to laugh every day...this totally awesome couple taught me that. 3) Listen to your instructors. You may not like them, you may butt heads with them BUT, unless they are insulting you or making you do something totally irrational, they are trying to give you the wealth of their knowledge. Give the the decency of your respect. 4) It is a journey, a marathon, not a sprint. So pace yourself. And Breathe...don't forget to breathe. Good Luck! Find me on Facebook if you have questions about school. I might be able to help. it's thelaborlady on FB. :)

[@MiniDress360]

Corey Jennifer Joyce That is so sweet of you! Honestly, right now I'm getting cold feet, but I know that's because I'm nervous about the financial difficulties I will have to balance along side going back to university. I'm just praying things will balance out the way I intend. I have written your 4 rules down, and I KNOW they will be helpful. Thank you :D

[@jessicajarsak7812]

My nurses never used a biopatch but when I took over my port care, I do use the biopatch when I put a wound dressing. I only put a dressing on when I need to keep it in for infusions every 6 months or bloodwork or contrast. Other than that, when I flush monthly , I don’t use a dressing. Should I be? Even for just flushing once a month?

[@michelleobermuller9236]

Hi, Just a few things. I really enjoyed looking at your video. You have a great spirit and you two make a great team. 1) When taking the air out of the normal saline syringe do not take off the cap and pull back. This action pulls whatever contaminant is in the environment into the syringe, instantly contaminating it. Simply unscrew the cap a little and push up on the plunger. This action helps to break the seal and get the air out without shooting the saline all over the place. 2) Do not wet the sterile field. Prime the needle away from the drape. 3) Do not flush the port before checking for blood return. This action increases the chance of flushing saline into an area outside of the catheter. You should pull back first to check for blood return. 9 out of 10 times you will see blood if the needle is in the port. If no blood comes back, then you can flush the port conservatively, before checking for blood return again. Just a few pointers from a home infusion RN.

[@orangeheadjulio]

Wow, the things you go through...you make it look easy! Love how Peter is so involved in your care, what a great example of a marriage. Thanks for educating me on this subject, I find it fascinating. P.S. I LOVE your nail polish! What color is it?

[@nieuwworld2799]

Mary, I am in Nursing school and this week we are learning about Ports. I am a fan have been subscribed for a while so when this one popped up I knew I had to watch it. Thanks for sharing your journey, and it was very educational.

[@craftylittlerthings]

I like watching you. I was a nurse a long time ago in the army and we had family members with the same condition. It so nice to see someone getting on with living and not let it stop you. All the best to you and your husband for many years to come xxx

[@2Stumps]

Dum Dee Dum... Just Cleaning the port skin area...oops slipped down to the cleavage! I mean no disrespect, actually it was my wife who noticed and said her cleavage needs sterilizing. I couldn't help but giggle! A wife with an Amazing sense of humor, makes life wonderful! Sorry that you even have to deal with CF! Seeing your husband help you made me tear up alittle, because it reminded me of how much my wife helped me 4 years ago while I went through a personal Tragedy. She doesn't like to hear it but she's my Hero! Cheers to you both!

[@kelliwood3157]

As a ex-nursing student I love this video. :) Good job with the sterile field! But if I'm remembering right, once the sterile field gets wet it is no longer sterile. Can someone who knows let me know?

[@ho11ywoodromance]

+Kelli Wood you are correct.

[@Tahoe832]

Kelli Wood correct. If it's wet, it's not sterile.

[@jessicabickley6341]

It depends though: if the sterile field was a non-porous material and the wetness did not seep through (some sterile fields I've worked with are plastic coated under the paper), you could argue that it was not contaminated because the saline was sterile and the wetness did not penetrate the field. However, usually when the field gets wet, the bacteria on the surface under the sterile field can migrate through to the sterile field material and contaminate it. As a general rule, "once wet, reset!"

[@oddtoast2.040]

Yes, I have a port and I have to get a Nother sterile field to put the water on. ‘-‘

[@hayleyanderson482]

sure I know how when a sterile field gets wet the germs from the table go through the saturated paper and make the sterile field contaminated

[@juwairiyahjohnson8199]

This video was excellent educational and fun. I've been a nurse for 6 yrs and the thought of first accessing a port freaked me out, but you 2 made it look so easy. keep up the good work

[@oliefitangel]

Hey I just want to say that when your sterile field has some fluid on it, it's no longer sterile. Because bacteria travel faster through liquid. So when you flushed your catheter, the salin went onto the sterile field. Just so you know. I'm saying this because in nursing school they told us to be careful about this. Take care xoxoxox and good luck

[@daisysplace5340]

I was recently diagnosed with myositis and looking in to ivig. I told my family yesterday that i didn’t want to go thru having a port for fear of infection, but your video has opened my eyes. Thank you SO much!!!! Hugs 🤗

[@corywert6140]

I do not have a port nor does anyone I know, but I am very interested in medical things. I watch surgery often and have became "nurse Cory" in my house. 😂 I actually learn a lot from this video and will remember it for the future. Thanks! (Ps I'm only 15 I'm not like a nursing student)

[@nikinaeve9946]

Amazing and concise video, and we all need that attitude in our hearts, even if we're not feeling it 24/7...thank you!

[@hannahw6561]

Mary!!!! We did camp together! I heard about you having CF and wanted to see how you were for some years now but didnt know how to find you! Then one fine day you popped up on my youtube feed and i was like OH MY LANTA!!!. I am so proud of you. I have chronic illness too (dysautonomia/pots) and i just felt so proud of you seeing these videos. You are so beautiful, and lovely and have such a precious heart i am so happy someone like you is vlogging. God bless you and your husband, Mary

[@thefreylife]

Wait.... what??? Which camp??? So cool! So cool to be able to connect years later!

[@hannahw6561]

Good news camp! :) you were the teacher and I was one of your counselors:)... we had a group of little boys that year ^^

[@thefreylife]

Oh my goodness! YES!!! That's awesome!

[@hannahw6561]

Yes 😁😆

[@hannahw6561]

Ah you cant see my happiness emojis! :(

[@dianadominick6172]

Thank you for sharing. I get a port in 2 days and am scared. You made me smile, thanks guys, you great!

[@ChronicallyCassidy]

That's so nice how your saline is in the sterile packaging. Mine come separate so you can't touch them with the sterile gloves so it's like a little tricky! My nurse uses one glove on and one off

[@brandiigiibson]

First off, I love your voice. Second, you have no idea how much you've helped me with nursing school. Third, your husband is absolutely fabulous!

[@melissas3281]

I just got a port placed (I also have CF), and this was very helpful! I'm worried about getting my first flush this week. The only other time it's been accessed is when it was placed (and I was pretty drugged up). BTW: I do have the numbing cream, and I plan on using it at least the first time ... because I'm a wimp when it comes to needles.

[@melissas3281]

I'm having this done at a hospital, though, not at home. Not quite ready for that just yet ;)

[@oddtoast2.040]

You’ll get used to it, One time I forgot to use numbing cream and it wasn’t that bad!

[@aprilmingone3271]

Go ahead and use it each time i do.

[@HannahDono]

I was recently in the hospital for swollen lymph nodes and I watched this so many times!! I was talking to the nurse the whole time about all the bits and pieces of the IV and she was impressed that a 13 Yr old knew all that,, thank you!!

[@sarablaira22]

I want to thank you for making these videos... my doctors are thinking about giving me a port and I have been freaking out about it.. this has definitely calmed me down

[@thefreylife]

+Sara Blaira Hi There! I was just talking to my Doctor about the benefits of a port actually. He mentioned how most people don't have a port (CF patients). I was so surprised! I was under the impression that most CF patients who need IVS more than once a year get a port. haha, silly me. Well, honestly, I am SOOOO glad I got a port. And of the ten years that I have had it, it has only really had an issue once (this year) and in the end all was fine, it was just clogged for a moment :) If you have any other questions, please ask! I think you will be pleased with your decision! Just be sure that you keep it sterile whenever it's being accessed, and you should be good to go :)

[@sarablaira22]

+The Frey Life I'm NPO tonight for my port tomorrow! Thank you so much for the inspiration!

[@thefreylife]

I hope to hear from you tomorrow that all went well and you are on your way to living a portful, happy life :)

[@monalisa1ification]

impressive and very inspiring , i will definitly ask my doctor how to became independent and learn to do it myself , thank you so much for this video

[@milkygacha6153]

Loved your video guys! I'm a nursing student and it was very informative.

[@melanybrito6735]

Getting my port in two months. You’re videos have been extremely helpful. Thank you for this!

[@laurenfanson]

Very educational video. And I love how Peter cares for you. He is an AMAZING and loving man :). GodBless you Mary- I don't know how you do what you do... You're so strong and you make me so very humble! Stay STRONG always! I love you so much Mary

[@maliachoi4159]

I love Mary's laugh she makes my day a 100x better even if im having a good day. Keep up the good work! 😊

[@MiniMeDesigns]

You have a great husband 💪🏽✨

[@timwolverton3572]

you are a precious girl! I am currently in nursing school and I enjoyed your teaching of this access to your port! THANKS AGAIN! GOD BLESS YOU!

[@MandieZangora]

My port is super wiggly too! Thanks for the great explanation, I'll be sure to forward this video on for family and friends who have questions about my port ❤️

[@thefreylife]

+Mandie Zangora Oh I'm so glad it can be helpful!

[@MandieZangora]

+The Frey Life +The Frey Life not gonna lie I'm fangirling hardcore right now, thank you so much for responding!!!! As a fellow chronic illness warrior and lover of God I just want to thank you guys for spreading awareness!!!! I'm not sure if you've heard of the spoon theory, but make sure you google it ❤️ we are spoonie sisters!!! Stay strong ❤️❤️❤️

[@thefreylife]

Awe, that is sweet of you to fangirl...but, hey girl, we are just friends chatting right :) Hang in there!

[@MandieZangora]

+The Frey Life 😍😱😳 yes! Thank you so much for responding. I've had a really bad week with my chronic pain and have been going through a bunch of crap and this conversation just made everything 1000x better ❤️❤️❤️ Thank you!!!! Sending love from Chicago, Illinois!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@thefreylife]

Chicago?! That's great! Did you know I went to college in down town Chicago? I loved my time in Chicago! We used to go to Mccormicks late at night and eat a burger for 1.95 :)

[@wendymitchell4511]

This is an excellent video on how to properly access a port, how to keep sterile to prevent infection. You articulated this well. May I add, just to up the infection prevention, that prior to attaching the Heparin syringe that you or your husband wear clean gloves, scrub the cap with an alcohol pad for a minimum of 30 seconds and then attach the Heparin Syringe. Bravo to you too!!!

[@AnneloesF]

I always wondered how ports work! Very interesting, thank you!

[@thefreylife]

+AnneloesF Oh good, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@missassunshine]

Same, loved this, always had picc lines

[@aspooniquelife6812]

Thank you for this!!!! Your song at the end made me giggle haha I am getting my port placed this coming wednesday as well as my GJ tube replaced. Heres to staying safe while heading to the hospital!

[@abbyreneetener8121]

im so sorry you have to go through this. your in my prayers

[@stasiat1296]

Thanks for this video! I want to be a pediatric oncology nurse when I'm older and I know I'll be accessing and de accessing ports so it was really interesting to see how it's done :) I watch your videos every day and you guys are in my prayers :)

[@oliviavenegas127]

I have cf and I might be admitted tomorrow and they want me to get a port cause I have so much scar tissue and I'm soooo scared I'm 13 any advice?

[@thefreylife]

I am SO SO glad I have my port! I would go for it if I were you :) It will be sore for a few days after they place your port, but I think you'll find that you will be glad you have it! Picc lines will be a thing of the past!

[@oliviavenegas127]

The Frey Life Thanks my doctors really want to consider since it's my fourth time there this year I was in the hospital last month twice a week apart from the time I was released but. I play soccer and I fear I won't be able to after I have to port placed. Thanks for responding BTW 😊

[@lemonpotato5267]

Olivia Venegas its probably a bit late to comment now but I'm 13 and I have cf aswell I got my port when I was 11 and it really is the best thing ever it might hurt a small bit for the first day or two but it is so worth it xx

[@oliviavenegas127]

Ciara Cf thanks I ended up not getting it they decided just to give me give me Iv antibiotics through an IV I wish I had the option to get a port but I hope next time they will give me the option so I don't have to get picc lines anymore. Thanks for replying BTW 😊

[@viggosorensen6785]

get wel soon

[@meghanh8468]

I had a port for over a year due to cancer. I would only let 2 nurses do it bc they did it fats and painless. I needed the numbing cream for exactly 45 minutes. It helped and didn’t freak me out

[@JKCJFM]

You are such a brave woman and your teeth are perfect!

[@jackie-ui9hd]

Great job! You can ask for a biospot. The guaze is only supposed to be there only so long. So either a chg pad or bio patch which is antibacterial and will fill the space you mentioned. Best wishes. Infusion rn

[@jessicajarsak7812]

My nurses never used a biopatch but when I took over my own port care, I do use the biopatches when I put a dressing on.

[@Shortcake918]

awesome.. very well explained. better than some medical videos

[@thefreylife]

+Shortcake 918 Oh man! That is saying something! Thanks!

[@gueraniniz21]

hi i just came across your channel I had a port, I was anemic when I was born and wasn't eating well the only option back then was to have a port on my chest (right side) My father really didn't have much info of exactly why i got it and what kind of port was it. My health improved after the port but started to decline after around 8 years old or younger. I had lots of nose bleeds every day, couldn't do outside activities due to shortness of breath, the sun was my enemy, I got sick alot and then at around 12 years old doctors decided it was best to get it removed since I no longer needed it and was possible that the port was causing all this. after surgery I was in pain of course and had to be very careful but I recovered and I am much better. Nose bleeds stopped, no asthma ( I do sometimes need inhaler for coughs but rarely) I can run exercise be outdoors. thank you for sharing your life with us and hope to see more

[@TheFalopi]

I got a port last march for Hemophilia, I have to use it 3 times per week. I access it on Mondays and take it out on Fridays.

[@thefreylife]

+Dave McAvoy (Falopishy) Has it been a good tool for you?

[@TheFalopi]

+The Frey Life It is an amazing tool. Before the port I had to start an IV 3 times a week for my medicine, this makes it so much easier!

[@thefreylife]

I'm so glad it has been good for you! I am so happy with mine as well!

[@lukefryer7322]

Hi My Company has just invented a product to help patients, carers, healthcare workers, find the port and accurately place the needle. It stops causing undue stress, pain, damage to the port and helps reduce infection. Search "Portacator" in youtube to see the video. It was actually invented by a Csytic Fibrosis patient. If you want any more information, you can email me on: [e-mail] Thanks Luke

[@Tahoe832]

Hey I have Hemophilia too! I'm Severe Hemo A with Inhibitor. I also have a por.

[@jessicapape4401]

I like your videos demonstrating this kind of thing. I am hopefully going to school for nursing in the fall so i find this interesting and informational. With that being a CF carrier myself (also have two cousins with CF), I love your videos its great seeing someone talking about this and showing their day to day lives. Thanks for vlogging!

[@533134]

Great video =) I learned a lot as a newly licensed RN =)

[@nikkiclark3315]

I thought so as well. We never got opportunities to perform this type of care in nursing school. I just got my first job as a licensed RN on an Oncology unit so this will be extra helpful later on! :)

[@halliegarfield4907]

Thank you so much for this! I have mast cell activation syndrome and am getting my port placed on Tuesday. It is such a relief to see someone who reminds me of myself (young and upbeat) who also has a port!! I am going to college next year and it was starting to freak me out a bit with all the scary pictures online! I am so happy I found this video!! Thanks again and hope you're doing okay!!

[@thefreylife]

You totally got this! If you are interested we also have a video of how I can access my port by myself.

[@skullsofpink]

Tip from a nurse. To break that tight seal on the syringe, do NOT pull back on the plunger-you are sucking in non sterile air. Instead, while the cap is still on push the plunger and you will feel the seal break, then you can take off the cap and easily push out the air. :)

[@mariontully9018]

+Rachel Norris I agree. You guys really do rock! I agree with the above comments about your partnership in this. I will recommend this to a friend/patient new to chemo; jst got her PAC 3 days ago. Also, I know this is a video so it's awkward, but put a mask on the patient as well as the person accessing. Breathing / talking on the freshly cleaned area is not optimal. =O =| =) Nicely done!

[@ReineDeLaSeine14]

My new flushes are actually made to push out with the cap on but I couldn't do that with my old ones.

[@jessicajarsak7812]

Does that work with the heparin flush too?

[@hannahrachel9964]

So I just started college in January and my final goal is to be a nurse (currently a CNA) so things like this really interest me. I just started watching your videos and this was definitely one of my favorites because I've never seen this done before!

[@alisonchoward9490]

fantastic demonstration I really appreciate that... newly licensed RN, and wanting to brush up on some skills great video

[@thefreylife]

+Alison C Howard Oh good! So glad we could help out!

[@balckbettystack]

I have a port but every time I'm in hospital, the nurses and doctors say that they don't how to access it. My vascular surgeon said that I should get a few port packs and give one to the nurse and tell them how to access it. I had a fantastic Chemo nurse she myself, a nurse and my doctor how to use it. I've already taught my anaesthetist access it.

[@HiNoon]

That was amazing. Thank you so much for sharing. I couldn't look away. I love the song. Hahaha. Gosh you guys are great.

[@gracyk9934]

Thank you! This was super helpful as I will be getting a port in the next couple months. Hopefully sooner rather than later. I hope to become independent with my port care but my mom can help me too. Thanks guys!

[@AHealthyHan]

So well-produced and helpful! You guys just reminded me that I'm due for my monthly flush...awkward

[@thefreylife]

+hannahbreathes Are you gonna do it? Or do you have a nurse who comes to your dorm?

[@PoshTotti96]

I'm glad ur port is working out well for you. I had one put in when I was 14 for cancer treatment, and because I was like a c cup they decided to put the port underneath and to the side of my boob....the incision line is on my bra line. I ended up with bad nerve damage from from the surgery and hypo sensitivity in a decent sized region on my skin around where my port was. Just touching the skin felt like it was being sliced open. That was five years ago and it has improved some but it is still painful to touch and I always get bad pain from bra sitting on the scar. I really hope that everything works out for you. And I'm glad that the port was a good decision for you too.

[@peterleone3264]

Dr Peter did a great job for Mary my name is Peter so thanks for doing a great job for Mary

[@audreybalch7890]

You did a great job. I always wear a mask as the patient and anyone in the room of the accessing. Overall you said a lot of good informing words. My port is 1 & a half inches deep so I have to have numbing cream. Mine also wiggles around a lot and only certain nurses of mine can hit my port. Thanks for educating the world :) oh and by the way I have ALL Leukemia and I am getting my port removed around thanksgiving!

[@itsweevles8161]

Does it hurt or pull your skin when you take off the dressing? It looks like it does.

[@thefreylife]

+Winter Child Yep, it hurts sometimes

[@itsweevles8161]

+The Frey Life It probably feels like ripping off a band aid.

[@Dreadward444]

+The Frey Life guys today it's not been good:,(

[@jessicajarsak7812]

@@itsweevles8161I use adhesive remover.

[@alexkwak5918]

Thank you so much for making this video. I'm a nursing student and needed a quick refresher for ports and this video was awesome.

[@thefreylife]

So glad we could help!

[@udeservethebestbb8485]

I always taste the saline before my iv I get infusions cause of Crohn's disease

[@lukefryer7322]

Hi My Company has just invented a product to help patients, carers, healthcare workers, find the port and accurately place the needle. It stops causing undue stress, pain, damage to the port and helps reduce infection. Search "Portacator" in youtube to see the video. It was actually invented by a Csytic Fibrosis patient. If you want any more information, you can email me on: [e-mail] Thanks Luke

[@elliemccarthy5672]

I have Crohn's too, and i get Remicade (infliximab) infusions every 8 weeks. What medicine are you on?

[@udeservethebestbb8485]

+Ellie McCarthy I'm also on remicade (infliximab) I go every 8 weeks as well

[@amcicle]

Me too! I was dx in 2010. I get Remicade infusions every 6 weeks. Can't seem to last 8 weeks anymore. Hope you both are feeling as well as you can. :)

[@elliemccarthy5672]

Amy I am starting to get sick around 6.5/7 weeks. If it happens again, I am going to start getting infusions every 7 weeks :/

[@estebantspn5962]

It was very educational. As a nurse I have to congratulate you guys, you both did awesome. 😃

[@Laura-qn3tv]

Excellent video. Ive had two picc lines in my life due to mrsa. And the procedure for caring for a picc line is almost exactly like this. An that Cloroprep for me was never fun. And Peter your awesome you did that very professionally. You all stay blessed :)

[@voteblue9579]

MRSA and Ecoli are two if the nasty things I got after my surgery. I also had Hep B decades ago. I'd NEVER let anyone touch me without gloves. In fact, I make the phlebotomist wash their hands before the put the gloves on. If you are not willing to follow those steps BEFORE you touch a patient, you're in the wrong profession.

[@heyyou1198]

Not sure if you still have a picc line. I'm 14, I do and I've found that betadine is way better for my skin.

[@tracyshelton5599]

+Vote Blue Amen to that alot of them get mad if I ask if they washed if I didn't see them do it ive had to report 2 that sighed at me for asking I couldn't believe my eyes!

[@ellah.1801]

Good for you. You are so amazing. You inspire me everyday with my life. I may not be sick, but when I am sad, I look up to you to keep going and to not give up. Keep living your life as amazing as it is! 😘

[@AmelieBrooks]

That is pretty amazing thyt our husband is doing this O.O ... I am not sure if I could do that for my loved One. Actually I hate needles so ... I might actually faint XD ...

[@sydneyallen112]

I am a type 1 diabetic and I used to have feed my pump into my stomach and this reminds me of that, mine hurt a lot though. But you guys stay strong!! And I love y'all!!!

[@Rawr98]

So after the needle comes out, do you just leave the port? I would imagine dead skin cells, bacteria, etc could get in if not, but you didn't mention :o

[@Peoplehatethetruth]

+Rawr98 I think the little bit of blood seals it off.

[@Rawr98]

Zanya Carey cool, thanks!

[@jessicajarsak7812]

I put a bandaid when the needle comes out.

[@MsClumpid]

That was an awesome sterility method! Most of my nursing classmates can't even maintain sterility. Ooops! This content is very educational for me. You guys are the cutest also.

[@lilysuejordan8491]

HOW DID IT NOT HURT? I had one for chemotherapy and it hurt even with numbing cream 😷😂

[@thefreylife]

It usually hurts a little, sometimes more than others.

[@browneyedbear4182]

Same my dad can never get the dressing to stick

[@jessicajarsak7812]

@@browneyedbear4182 If you haven’t already , you can find different dressings that work best. I use sorbaview or IV 3000.

[@Disapointedmellencol]

that made me a lot less scared of this level of care.thank you for once again educating and helping to take the anxiety out of these kinda procedures. can't say thank you enough to you guys

[@PracticeMetta]

That was an awesome video. Very educational and you guys are a great couple! I did want to mention that one thing I learned was not to get the sterile field wet because it becomes more porous and the table underneath could contaminate it. I am not sure if that is accurate, but it was something I was taught. So, maybe an alternative would be to let the saline flush shoot off to the floor when you prime it or avoiding the wet part of the field… just a thought. Again, you guys are great. Thanks for sharing! You two are an inspiration.

[@DogEars]

This video helped me in deciding whether or not I wanted to get port surgery. I have EDS and POTS. My doctor wanted me to have a port for easy access for fluid treatments to treat POTS. Thank you for helping me decide "yes." :)