Subcutaneously anchored securement for peripherally inserted central catheters: Immediate, early, and late complications.

Background: An adequate stabilization of a vascular device is an important part of insertion bundles and is an effective strategy in reducing complications. Dislodgment has a relevant clinical impact and an increase in healthcare costs.

Method: We have retrospectively investigated the safety and efficacy of Subcutaneously Anchored Securement (SAS) for Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC) in cancer patients.

Breakthrough pain: the importance of baseline analgesic regimen with opioids.

Pain is one of the most common and often most feared symptoms in patients with cancer. Ongoing or progressive pain is physically debilitating and has a marked impact on quality of life. During their illness, at least 70% of patients will experience pain sufficiently severe to require chronic opioid treatment.