Evaluation of a Structured Port Catheter Care Training Program for Nurses in Turkey: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Port catheters are widely used in oncology care to provide safe long-term venous access; however, improper management may lead to complications such as infection, thrombosis, and extravasation. Nurses play a key role in preventing these complications through evidence-based care. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a structured training program on port catheter care on nurses' knowledge and knowledge retention. Method: This quasi-experimental study used a single-group pre-test–posttest follow-up design. The study included 60 nurses working in internal medicine and oncology units at a training and research hospital. Data were collected with a Descriptive Characteristics Form and a Port Catheter Care Knowledge Questionnaire. Results: Repeated measures analysis of variance showed that knowledge scores increased significantly after training and remained high at 1-month follow-up ( p < .001). Conclusion: The training program improved knowledge and supported retention. Further research is needed to assess its effect on clinical practice and patient outcomes.