Discharge Instructions for Vascular Access Port Removal

This sheet tells you how to care for yourself after having a vascular access port removed. Follow these steps to help with your recovery.

Caring for your wound

The area where the port was will take some time to heal. You may have a bandage over the wound. Keep the bandage on for 24 hours, or for as long as your healthcare provider advises. Don’t get the bandage wet.

Your wound may be closed with stitches (sutures) or adhesive strips. These may dissolve on their own or fall off within a week or so. Follow your healthcare provider’s directions on wound care. They will teach you how to clean the wound. You will likely need to keep it dry for at least 24 hours.

Always wash your hands before caring for your wound.

Managing pain

You may have some pain near the port removal site. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to ease any discomfort. Your provider may give you a prescription for the pain. Or they may advise you take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Limiting your activity

Your provider may advise you limit your activities for a while. These restrictions may include:

Not lifting anything more than 10 pounds for a few days
Not exercising for a period of time
Not showering for at least 24 hours
Not putting your surgical wound under water for a few days, so not taking a bath or swimming

When to call

Call 911 right away if you have:

Chest pain
Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Slowed breathing
Dizziness or loss of consciousness

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your provider if you have any of these symptoms:

Fever of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider
Chills
Skin near the wound that becomes red, warm, swollen, or painful
Bleeding or discharge from the wound
Swollen arm, if that’s where the port was at
Nausea or vomiting that does not stop