Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Home Therapy for Intermittent Anti-Emetic Injections Technical/Medical term: Home therapy, intermittent anti-emetic injection therapy; administrative services, professional pharmacy services, care coordination, and all necessary supplies and equipment, per diem (S9370)

Summary

Home therapy for intermittent anti-emetic injections involves receiving anti-nausea medication through injections administered at home. This service also includes care coordination, pharmacy services, all necessary supplies, and equipment. Nursing visits and the actual drugs used are billed separately.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed

• Chronic nausea and vomiting
• Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
• Other conditions causing severe nausea

Goals/Expected Outcomes

• Relief of nausea symptoms
• Improved ability to take in and retain nutrients
• Enhanced quality of life

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions

• Persistent nausea and vomiting unresponsive to oral medication
• Patients who have difficulty visiting healthcare facilities frequently due to mobility issues or other constraints

Patient Criteria

• Safe and suitable home environment
• Capability or support for self-administration of injections with professional guidance

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions

• Establish a clean and private area at home for the procedure
• Discuss and plan any necessary adjustments to current medications with the healthcare provider

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments

• A thorough medical history and physical examination
• Previous response to anti-emetic medications

Procedure Description

Steps Involved

1. A healthcare professional sets up the necessary supplies at the patient’s home.
2. The patient or caregiver is instructed on proper injection techniques.
3. Injections are administered intermittently as per the prescribed schedule.
4. Continuous care coordination is maintained between the patient, pharmacy, and healthcare providers.

Tools/Equipment Used

• Syringes and needles
• Anti-emetic medication
• Alcohol swabs
• Sharps disposal container

Anesthesia/Sedation

• Not applicable for this procedure

Duration

• Each injection session takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
• Overall service is provided on a per diem basis, considering the frequency of injections prescribed.

Setting

• Performed in the comfort of the patient's home

Personnel

• Pharmacists for medication preparation and delivery
• Nurses for initial training and periodic visits
• Care coordinators for managing schedules and communication

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Minor pain or irritation at the injection site

Rare Risks

• Allergic reactions to medication
• Infection at the injection site
• Incorrect administration leading to ineffective treatment

Management of Complications

• Immediate medical advice for significant adverse reactions
• Proper training and hygiene measures to minimize risks

Benefits

Expected Benefits

• Effective control of nausea
• Greater convenience and comfort due to home setting
• Potential for improved adherence to treatment plan

Realization of Benefits

• Most patients experience symptom relief within a few hours of the injection

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care

• Monitor for any adverse reactions or side effects
• Maintain regular communication with healthcare providers

Expected Recovery Time

• Immediate symptom relief with no downtime
• Patients can continue with their normal activities right after the injection

Restrictions and Follow-Up

• Adhere to the prescribed injection schedule
• Regular follow-up appointments as needed to adjust treatment

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options

• Oral anti-emetic medications
• Intravenous administration in clinical settings
• Non-pharmacological approaches like dietary changes and acupuncture

Pros and Cons

• Oral medications: less invasive but potentially less effective for severe cases
• IV administration: more effective for immediate relief but less convenient
• Non-pharmacological methods: supportive, but often insufficient alone for severe symptoms

Patient Experience

During Procedure

• Mild discomfort from the injection
• Minimal pain if proper techniques are followed

After Procedure

• Relief from nausea
• Possible minor irritation at the injection site

Pain Management and Comfort Measures

• Over-the-counter pain relief for site discomfort if needed
• Use of comfort measures like warm compresses post-injection