The Syringe Driver: Continuous subcutaneous infusions in palliative care - Softcover

Dickman, Andrew; Schneider, Jennifer; Varga, James

Softcover

ISBN 10: 019856693X ISBN 13: 9780198566939

Publisher: OUP Oxford, 2005

Synopsis

The delivery of two, three, four or even five drugs in the same syringe is now considered routine practice. A continuous subcutaneous infusion is an effective method of drug administration that is particularly suited to palliative care when other routes are inappropriate. Palliative care patients frequently have multiple symptoms that require the use of numerous drugs; as the patient's condition deteriorates, the oral route is often no longer suitable and the syringe driver ensures continued symptom control. This route increases patient comfort as it avoids the need for repeated injections, plasma concentration levels of drugs remain constant, and it maintains the patient's sense of independence. There have been several developments in this field since the first edition of this book was published, including new devices and drugs. The compatibility data are greatly expanded, covering an extensive list of drug combinations. The book consists of four chapters. The first chapter provides an overview of syringe drivers and continuous subcutaneous infusions, including detailed set up information. The second chapter provides detailed, referenced information about drugs that are likely to be delivered via a continuous subcutaneous infusion. The third chapter concentrates on the use of continuous subcutaneous infusions to control specific symptoms. Finally, an extensive list of compatibility tables is located in the fourth chapter.

About this title

About the Author

Andrew Dickman is the co-author of the new edition of the Palliative Care Formulary (Twycross).

Edition details

• Publisher: OUP Oxford
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 019856693X
• ISBN 13: 9780198566939
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 344