Can anyone share what method you have or presently using for IV medication administration?
If a mediport, was it used when you began treatment or put in later down the line?
What choice worked the best in conveinience, cost, safety, efficacy, etc?
I am trying to decide on starting IV which is recommended at this time for Neuro Lyme [treatment last 6 months of orals and IM]. I was told by MD to start with Mediport [does not like PICC lines].
I am an RN and would like to have some insight from those with experience.
Any help with this is appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Lisa
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
Ports are WAY WAY safer in my experience of knowing people with PICCs & Ports!!! Good for your doc. I didn't have a port but I know people who have. Hickman ports you can swim with and go in water without worrying. They are very safe, MUCH safer than PICCs and much less trouble although hard to self-administer meds. Sounds like you have a wary, careful doc! Awesome*)! Also, ports are for longterm! Best wishes, Sarah
Posted by sfcharm (Member # 9392) on :
I have a groshong catheter which sits right inside your bra. It's very convenient since I only have to tape it to my chest while showering.
I can do everything but swim with it. I miss swimming but hope to be back at it in five months. I've had the groshong catheter in for seven months with no infection or problem.
I have twice monthly blood draws and a nurse checks the site every two weeks. Since week 8 I have been allowed to shower with no dressing what so ever.
I found it easier than I ever thought it would be.