Use of the syringe driver in the community setting

Supporting patients with cancer and their family carers in the community setting presents a considerable challenge to healthcare professionals. As more patients with advanced cancer are cared for at home, family carers are assuming greater responsibility for managing a range of physical, emotional and psychological consequences of advanced malignant disease. Pain remains one of the most common and feared symptoms of advanced cancer and it is estimated that two-thirds of patients have pain in the terminal stages of illness. The syringe driver is a useful device for controlling cancer pain for many patients at home. This article explores a range of practical issues relating to the use of the syringe driver in the patient’s home. It is suggested that professional carers need to understand the complex nature of the caring role often assumed by family carers so that they can meet their needs for information and support. Good pain management can be achieved by using the syringe driver to deliver continuous pain-relieving medication but is dependent on collaboration between health professionals, the patient and family carers.