Name of the Procedure:

Home Infusion Therapy, Chemotherapy Infusion – Includes administrative services, professional pharmacy services, care coordination, and all necessary supplies and equipment (drugs and nursing visits coded separately), per diem.

Summary

Home infusion therapy for chemotherapy involves the administration of cancer medication through an intravenous (IV) line at a patient's home. This comprehensive service includes planning, coordinating care, and providing all necessary equipment and supplies for treatment, except for the medications and nursing visits, which are billed separately.

Purpose

Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed: Primarily for patients undergoing cancer treatment who need chemotherapy. Goals/Expected Outcomes: To safely and effectively administer chemotherapy drugs at home, improving patient comfort and reducing hospital visits.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions Warranting Procedure: Diagnosed with cancer requiring chemotherapy, with a stable performance status allowing for home treatment. Patient Criteria: Able to manage at-home therapy with a responsible caregiver, adequate home environment, no severe comorbidities requiring constant hospital supervision.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No specific patient preparation required.
• Ensure all necessary equipment and supplies are delivered and set up.
• Discuss the care plan and protocol with the healthcare provider.
• Educate patient and caregiver on handling equipment and recognizing complications. Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Typically, baseline blood tests and imaging studies as directed by the oncologist.

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Set up the IV line and infusion pump as instructed by the healthcare provider.
2. Administer pre-medications if prescribed to prevent side effects.
3. Connect the chemotherapy medication to the IV line.
4. Monitor the infusion process according to the protocols.
5. After infusion, flush the IV line and disconnect the equipment. Tools/Equipment Used: IV line, infusion pump, chemotherapy drugs, sterile supplies. Anesthesia/Sedation Details: Not applicable.

Duration

The duration of the infusion can vary but typically takes several hours depending on the chemotherapy regimen.

Setting

The procedure is performed in the patient's home.

Personnel

Healthcare Professionals Involved:

• Registered Nurses (RNs) specialized in infusion therapy
• Pharmacists for medication preparation
• Care coordinators for ongoing support and supervision

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection at the IV site
• Vein irritation or phlebitis Rare Risks:
• Severe allergic reactions
• Incorrect dosage or administration errors Possible Complications and Management: Prompt medical attention for signs of infection or allergic reaction, regular monitoring of blood counts and organ function.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Comfortable treatment in the familiar home environment
• Reduced need for hospital visits Realization of Benefits: Immediate comfort benefits and consistent chemotherapy administration leading to ongoing cancer management.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care and Instructions:

• Monitor IV site for any signs of infection
• Follow prescribed oral medications if any Expected Recovery Time: Minimal to no recovery time, patients can usually resume normal activities shortly after infusion. Restrictions/Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with the oncologist and periodic blood tests.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Inpatient chemotherapy at the hospital
• Outpatient clinic or cancer center infusion Pros and Cons of Alternatives:
• Hospital/clinic settings provide immediate medical support but require travel and time.
• At-home therapy offers comfort and convenience but requires responsibility and vigilance at home.

Patient Experience

Expectations During and After the Procedure:

• Patients may feel slight discomfort from the IV insertion but generally comfortable during infusion.
• Post-procedure might entail mild fatigue or other chemotherapy-related side effects. Pain Management and Comfort Measures:
• Local anesthetic cream for IV site, anti-nausea medications, and other symptom management strategies as prescribed.