[Cored42]

We have a Palliative Care physician new to our area who is begining to order continuous subcutaneous infusions. Any suggetions/recommendations on brand of needle to explore? Any help would be appreciated.

Ron from Illinois

[traumaRUs]

We used this system in IN in the mid-90's in long term care. The system came with a needle attached to to stylet. We placed the needled, (usually in the thigh), removed the stylet leaving a small catheter in place. Then, we hooked it up to the tubing (very small bore) and then it was attached to a CADD pump. Worked very well.

[IVRUS]

We service LTC facilitites in the Missouri/Illinois area and many of our homes are interested in SQ or Hypodermoclysis infusions. The newest modality in administering via this route is utilizing a set called "Aqua-C Hydration System". It's easy to use and much more comfortable than previous Hypodermoclysis sets. Check it out.. Its patented by Norfolk Medical.
DD

[cannulation]

Dear Cored42 regarding subcutaneous infusions, our hospital (in England) uses a product made by Becton Dickinson (BD) called a Saf-T Intama it is normally used for IV access. We use the blue one size 22 gauge as this provides the right length. You need to prime it with normal saline prior to insertion. If you wish I can e-mail you our policy and also provide a reference for an article on its use written by my colleague. As there is no needle under the skin the device can stay in up to 7 days depending on what is being administered. We use a line that has a 0.6 priming volume to assist with timing of drugs given via a syringe driver. Hope this helps