Home infusion therapy.

OBJECTIVES: To examine issues related to the planning of an effective home infusion therapy program and to provide an overview of specific home infusion therapies for patients with cancer. DATA SOURCES: Published articles, research studies, guidelines, and standards pertaining to infusion therapies.
CONCLUSIONS: Advances in technology have expanded and increased the scope and success of home infusion therapy. Antimicrobial therapy, chemotherapy, pain management, total parenteral nutrition, and blood transfusion therapy are commonly administered to cancer patients at home. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: A competent and experienced nursing staff is the cornerstone of a successful home infusion program. Safe provision of infusion therapy and care can be assured through selection of appropriate patients, effective patient education, well-defined agency policies, and effective coordination of home care services.