What is a syringe pump?

A syringe pump is a small, portable battery controlled pump which can be carried in a pouch, in your pocket, or placed near you in bed.  A syringe and plastic tubing are attached to the pump which gives your medicines through a small tube which is inserted just under the skin.  The medicines are then absorbed into your bloodstream. The pump runs 24 hours a day continuously delivering medicines.

Why do I need a syringe pump?

Sometimes it helps to have medicines through a pump because:

• You have been vomiting (sick)
• You are unable to swallow your medicines
• Your healthcare team have advised to do so

Medicines are given using the syringe pump to help manage your symptoms when you cannot take your medicines by mouth.  

Who will look after my syringe pump?

You do not need to do anything to the syringe pump.  The syringe with the medicines will be changed each day by the healthcare team looking after you. They will check that the small tube under the skin is comfortable and that you are not having any problems with the medicines or the syringe pump.  

Sometimes it is necessary to take additional medicines. If you are at home, and still able to swallow, you may be prescribed medicines to take should you experience symptoms.  Please let your healthcare team know if you have had to take additional medicines during the day or night.

What does a syringe pump look like?

The syringe pump is lightweight and around 15cm long by 5cm tall.   It may have a clear plastic cover or a fabric bag/pouch for protection.  Your healthcare team will be able to show you the syringe pump.

How does it work?

The pump pushes the medicines from the syringe into the plastic tubing and through the small tube under the skin.  A light will flash green to let you know the pump is working. The green light will flash as long as there is power in the battery.   

If the light changes to yellow or red while the syringe pump is running, the battery will need to be replaced at the earliest opportunity: PLEASE INFORM THE HEALTHCARE TEAM CARING FOR YOU.  

Please:

• DO keep the syringe pump and the area where the tube goes under the skin dry. If the site accidentally gets wet, just gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.
• DO take care when washing or bathing to keep the syringe pump dry. If the pump comes in contact with water, let the healthcare team know as soon as possible.
• DO let the healthcare team know if the syringe pump has accidentally been dropped.

Please:

• DO NOT adjust or alter the syringe pump settings or equipment. All changes will be made by the team caring for you.
• DO NOT expose the syringe pump and plastic tubing to direct sunlight. You should keep it covered or in the fabric pouch.
• DO NOT expose the syringe pump to extreme heat. For example, avoid placing next to a heat pad, electric blanket or hot water bottle.

Other important information:

If you notice any of the following please inform / contact the healthcare team caring for you:

• The alarm on the pump is activated
• The light on the syringe pump is not flashing
• There is leakage at the site/dressing where the tube goes under the skin
• The skin around the tube is red, swollen and/or painful
• The tube under the skin has come out or dislodged
• The colour of the liquid in the syringe or the plastic tubing has changed
• There is a cloudiness and/or solid bits in the syringe or plastic tubing

*Please advise the healthcare team caring for you of any problems or concerns so these can be resolved quickly*

Your contact numbers for advice and support are:

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