A Centralized Storage System for the Delivery of Subcutaneous Infusions

Peter Stuart, Jane Lee, Gill Arnold, Melanie Davies

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Symptom control is an important part of maintaining a palliative patient’s comfort and dignity, particularly in the end stages of their illness. Within the discipline of palliative care the use of continuous subcutaneous syringe drivers is an important way of administering drugs at the end stages of a patient’s illness to maintain symptom control. This study identified that ward staff had difficulty in obtaining the correct equipment, such as administration sets and Luer-lock syringes, leading to significant delays in patients being given drugs, affecting patient care and, when unable to obtain the correct equipment, the incorrect equipment was used. It was also identified that there was no consistent approach to the use or maintenance of syringe drivers, with a clear risk to patient safety. The study aim was to identify whether the introduction of a centralized storage system of set boxes containing all the relevant equipment would resolve these issues and improve patient care and safety. The audit showed that a centralized storage system enhanced practice by ensuring that there was a standardized approach to the initiation and care of syringe drivers, including equipment when used in the palliative care setting. The system also provided easy access to the correct equipment, reducing in the delay of commencing treatment, as well as the risk of any adverse events.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages5
JournalBritish Journal of Nursing
Volume17
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Centralized equipment storage
  • Palliative care
  • Subcutaneous infusion
  • Symptom control

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