Lisa A Gorski1. 1. Clinical Nurse Specialist Ascension At Home-Wisconsin. Electronic address: lisagorski@hotmail.com.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe the scope of home infusion therapy in cancer care, expectations related to caregiver involvement in home infusion therapy, literature addressing the impact upon caregivers, and nursing implications. DATA SOURCES: Published data on cancer care and home infusion therapy. CONCLUSION: While the administration of home infusion therapy is not uncommon practice for patients with cancer and is generally well-accepted, there is scant research focused specifically on the impact upon caregivers. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Caregiver support not only includes providing instruction in infusion-related tasks but also recognizing the potential impact on the caregiver's life and offering supportive interventions.
OBJECTIVES: To describe the scope of home infusion therapy in cancer care, expectations related to caregiver involvement in home infusion therapy, literature addressing the impact upon caregivers, and nursing implications. DATA SOURCES: Published data on cancer care and home infusion therapy. CONCLUSION: While the administration of home infusion therapy is not uncommon practice for patients with cancer and is generally well-accepted, there is scant research focused specifically on the impact upon caregivers. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Caregiver support not only includes providing instruction in infusion-related tasks but also recognizing the potential impact on the caregiver's life and offering supportive interventions.