Syringe drivers are portable devices which provide a continous infusion over a period of 24 hours and can be used at home or in hospital and is powered by battery to give a continuous supply of medicine. It is normally indicated for use in patients mainly when they are no longer able to swallow, severe nausea and vomiting or if their conscious level is decreased. Commonly, patients have the misconception that this type of device is used when approaching death, therefore healthcare professionals should take time to explain that this device is only an alternative method of administering drugs.

 

Sites of insertion of syringe driver:

 

 Theoretically anywhere that contains loose subcutaneous tissues and good supply of lymphatic vessels (so that drugs can be drained away) is ideal for insertion of the cannula. For example, anterior chest below the clavicles (collar bone), over the intercostal space, scapula (shoulder blade) and abdomen.

In patients that are bed bound, it is recommended to insert the cannula in the thighs, abdomen or on the outer arms because patients are less likely to lie on or dislodge the cannula.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sites unsuitable for insertion:

 

Areas such as skin with oedema should be avoided because there will not be enough absorption to take place and broken skin may increase likelihood of infection.

Also joints or areas of the skin which is bony are not appropriate for insertion of cannula because there is a lack of subcutaneous tissue so therefore there will be limited absorption.

Furthermore skin that has been subjected to radiation should be used as site for insertion because

the patency i.e. openness of the blood vessels may be reduced and so affect the perfusion and

absorption of the drug.