During the use of an implanted port, what must be done to the skin each time it is accessed?

The correct answer emphasizes the necessity of properly disinfecting the skin before accessing an implanted port. Prior to any access of the port, it is imperative to clean the skin over the port site to reduce the risk of infection. This typically involves using an appropriate antiseptic solution, such as chlorhexidine or alcohol, to ensure that any potential pathogens are eliminated from the skin's surface.

Accessing the port without disinfecting the skin can lead to serious complications, including infections, which can undermine the treatment process and pose significant health risks to the patient.

While puncturing the skin is a necessary step when accessing the port itself, it is the disinfection of the skin that is critical for preparing the site and ensuring a safe and sterile procedure. Hence, the practice involves both disinfecting the area and then penetrating the skin to access the port; simply puncturing would not ensure a sterile environment around the access point.