High-technology in home care. An overview of intravenous therapy.

The administration of i.v. medications in the home environment has proven to be a viable and highly desirable alternative to traditional hospitalization. Technology has been the driving force behind the safe transition of the more acutely ill patient from the hospital to the home. The variety of infusion pumps and venous access devices available provides a number of therapy choices, each tailored to the needs of the individual patient. Home infusion therapy allows for the integrity of the family to remain intact and provides the option for greater participation by the patient and caregiver in the development and implementation of the treatment plan. Most important, technology has led to the evolution of home infusion therapy as a high-quality, cost effective approach to care in a troubled health delivery system.