Why was a central venous port chosen for Mrs. Turner’s chemotherapy?

• A. Peripheral IV would be preferred but port is cheaper.
• B. Docetaxel and carboplatin are irritants and a port reduces the risk of extravasation.
• C. Port placement is standard for all patients regardless of regimen.
• D. The patient refused peripheral venous access.

Answer: (B)

When chemotherapy uses drugs that irritate or can damage tissue if they leak from the vein, and treatment will be given over multiple sessions, a central venous port provides reliable, long-term access to a large central vein. This setup keeps the chemotherapy in the bloodstream and reduces the risk of extravasation, which can cause painful and potentially serious tissue injury. Docetaxel and carboplatin are such agents, and placing a port lowers the chance of a leak into surrounding tissue while also allowing easier, quicker access for each session and fewer needle sticks. The other options aren’t the main reason here: cost isn’t the primary factor, the port isn’t universally standard for every regimen, and there’s no information indicating the patient refused peripheral access.