Mediport Access at STV-St. Clair: Perfecting Precision in Port Access

Story by Mercedees Willis

On Sept. 16, UAB Mobile Simulation conducted a mediport access simulation in collaboration with St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital.

The training provided health-care professionals with hands-on experience using silicone-based trainers to access a mediport—a device implanted under the skin to facilitate frequent blood draws or infusions for patients undergoing long-term treatments like chemotherapy. Mediports reduce the need for repeated needle sticks, making treatments more convenient and less painful for patients.

By the end of the session, participants reported increased confidence in their ability to perform mediport access with precision and care, improving patient outcomes and minimizing the risk of infection or complications. 

As one participant noted, “Using the trainers made it feel like I was really in the moment, practicing mediport access like I would in real life.”

Learners also appreciated the Mobile Sim team’s real-time support and feedback.

“Staff were very supportive and encouraging during instruction and participation,” learner Peggy St. John, L.P.N., said. 

Learn more about UAB Mobile Simulation here.