Understanding Patient-Reported Experiences with Central Venous Access Devices

Central venous access devices (CVADs) play a crucial role in treating patients with cancer, chronic illnesses, and other complex conditions requiring long-term intravenous therapy. However, the patient experience and outcomes associated with these devices are often overlooked. A new systematic review explores patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) related to CVADs, shedding light on the real-world challenges faced by patients.

Study Overview
This systematic review examined 41 studies that assessed patient experiences with CVADs using self-reported questionnaires. Researchers analyzed 875 studies, identifying 155 unique PROM items and 184 unique PREM items covering various aspects of patient care, including pain, complications, decision-making, and overall satisfaction.

Key Findings
- Patient Discomfort and Complications
Many patients reported pain, irritation, and discomfort associated with CVADs. Complications such as infections, clotting, and mechanical failures were common concerns.

- Need for Better Communication
A significant portion of patients felt uninformed about their device, care procedures, and potential risks. Improved education and shared decision-making were highlighted as critical areas for improvement.

- Psychological and Emotional Impact
Living with a CVAD affected patients' mental well-being, with many expressing concerns about body image, daily activities, and quality of life.

- Limited Validated Measurement Tools
While research increasingly incorporates PROMs and PREMs, most tools used in studies lack standardized validation, making it difficult to apply findings consistently across healthcare settings.

Clinical Implications
- Enhancing Patient Education: Providing clear information on CVAD care can reduce anxiety and improve patient confidence.
- Implementing Standardized Measurement Tools: Developing and validating reliable PROM/PREM tools will allow for better tracking of patient-reported issues.
- Addressing Quality of Life Concerns: Holistic care approaches should consider the emotional and psychological burden of living with a CVAD.

Conclusion
While CVADs are essential for managing serious medical conditions, patient experiences must be prioritized to improve both clinical outcomes and quality of life. This study emphasizes the urgent need for validated patient-centered measurement tools to guide improvements in CVAD care.

Read More:https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00520-024-08961-x 

Authors: Emily N. Larsen, Claire M. Rickard, Nicole Marsh, Mary Fenn, Rebecca S. Paterson, Amanda J. Ullman, Raymond J. Chan, Vineet Chopra, Doreen Tapsall, Amanda Corley, Nicole Gavin, Brighid Scanlon & Joshua Byrnes