Information for patients and carers
What is a syringe pump?
This is a small battery-operated pump with a syringe that has your medicines in it. The medicines are given through a thin tube which is put under the skin and are then absorbed into your body. The pump will deliver your medicine slowly over 24 hours. The pump can be used to give you several medicines at the same time. Sometimes you may require more than one syringe pump to manage your symptoms. Once a syringe pump is started it will be regularly reviewed.
Why do I need a syringe pump?
Syringe pumps may be used for a variety of reasons but can be an easier way for you to receive your medicines. Medication delivered via a syringe pump means even if you are feeling sick, unable to swallow tablets or are asleep, you will continue to receive the medicines via the syringe pump. This will help to mange your symptoms in the most effective way. If you have any questions please discuss with the team who are caring for you.
Living with your syringe pump
A syringe pump should not interfere with your daily activities. You can go out and about with your pump as it is small enough to be put in a pouch that can be carried or worn as a shoulder bag.
When bathing or showering please ensure that the pump does not get wet.
If you drive, you should ask the nurse if the medicines in the pump will affect your driving.
The medicines in your pump will need to be renewed daily. If the medication needs to be altered this will be discussed by the team caring for you.
Please ensure that you report any worries or concerns you may have.
Caring for your pump
You should keep the pump and the site dry. If you drop the pump into water, you must contact your team as soon as possible, as you will need a new syringe pump.
You should not put the pump near anything hot, like a heat pad, electric blanket, hot water bottle or direct sunlight.
How do I know that my syringe pump is working?
The light above the ‘ON/OFF’ button flashes green once every minute.
If there is a problem with the pump, then it will alarm. Your team will discuss with you what to do if this happens.
You MUST let the team caring for you know as soon as possible if:
- The pump gets wet
- The pump is dropped
- The colour of the medicines in the tubing or syringe has changed
- There is cloudiness or bits in the tube or syringe
- The thin tube has fallen out
- The site where the thin tube is inserted becomes uncomfortable, red, hot, swollen or liquid leaks around the site.
- Tubing is not connected to the needle
- The alarm is sounding
- You experience a change in your symptoms
Contact us
If you are in any doubt, please contact our advice line on 01823 333822 or 01935 709480.