Cancer nursing
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Flushing and locking of totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) is recommended to maintain their patency when not in use. Although manufacturers' recommendations indicate monthly access for TIVAD maintenance, there is a tendency in real life to prolong this interval. ⋯ No statistically significant difference in occlusion rate between short and long timing of flushing was found. However, further studies are necessary to strengthen the safe implementation of longer intervals in clinical practice.