Subcutaneous opioid infusions at home.

The ability to provide subcutaneous infusions in the home has had a major impact on patient care. The main indication for this approach in the cancer population is the need for prolonged parenteral administration of an opioid drug. Successful administration begins with proactive consideration of patient selection; choice of pump, drug, mode of infusion, and dosing schedule; the resources of the family and community health-care system; and cost and insurance coverage. Long-term management requires ongoing liaison among the hospital pain management team, home care infusion agency, and community physicians and nurses.