Patient education and compliance issues associated with access devices.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the variables impacting patient education and to describe techniques for implementing successful education.
CONCLUSIONS: Patients have the inherent right to be informed about all available options, significant risks, and treatment options. Throughout the teaching process, adequate time is needed for the patient to demonstrate skills in care and to voice concerns. Written literature and videos from the manufacturer or developed within the institution augment the nurse's teachings. Having a family member or significant other present is necessary to ensure that the teaching is complete. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses are responsible for teaching patients about device care and how to troubleshoot complications. Nurses must be aware of factors that can affect learning, such as the patient's age, physical and emotional status, educational level, and current stress level. Failure to provide proper instruction may resort in the omission of vital steps, which may create problems with any type of device.