What is a Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion (CSI)?

Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion is a small portable battery operated infusion, holding a syringe. It allows medicines to be given steadily under the skin over a 24 hour period. The infusion will hopefully reduce the need for repeated injections. 

Why do I need one?

A Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion is used to give medicines in an alternative way to help control any symptoms you may be suffering as a result of your illness. For example if you:

  • are feeling or being sick
  • have difficulty swallowing
  • maybe too weak or no longer able to take medicines by mouth
  • you may not absorb medication so well orally
  • your nurse or doctor feels it is the most appropriate route for medication delivery

Your Nurse or Doctor will discuss the reasons for starting a Continuous Subcutaneous Infusion with you and your family/carer. An infusion can be used at any stage of your illness to control your symptoms. If you become able to take oral medicines it may be possible to discontinue the infusion.

The benefits are:

  • It will help to maintain a constant amount of drugs in your bloodstream
  • It will mean that you may not have to keep having injections
  • Medications are better absorbed and so more effective at controlling symptoms.

Who looks after the Infusion?

The district nursing team will reload the infusion every 24 hours. The device will be checked every time you are seen by a nurse to ensure that it is operating correctly.

How do I know it is working?

  • While the infusion is running the indicator light will flash green approximately every 30 seconds.

  • If the alarm sounds contact the nurses involved in your care so that they can check the infusion.

Do

  • Report soreness, redness, irritation or swelling to the nurse
  • Contact the nurse if the infusion comes out
  • Contact your nurse/ doctor if you have concerns regarding your infusion
  • Keep all drugs away from children, ideally in a locked cupboard
  • Seek advice from your nurse on the safe disposal of unwanted medication

Don’t

  • Report soreness, redness, irritation or swelling to the nurse
  • Contact the nurse if the infusion comes out
  • Contact your nurse/ doctor if you have concerns regarding your infusion
  • Keep all drugs away from children, ideally in a locked cupboard
  • Seek advice from your nurse on the safe disposal of unwanted medication

If your call is not answered please leave a message and the service will get back to you at the earliest opportunity.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

If you have some concerns, questions or need advice on our services, you can contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0800 234 6088 or contact the The PALS Team via email.

Feeling low and need someone to talk to?

Call 0800 915 4640

Monday to Friday 7pm to 11pm Saturday to Sunday 12pm to Midnight

Need urgent help?

Call 0800 953 0110 24 hours a day, seven days a week

This leaflet is available in alternative languages and formats upon request. Please speak to a member of our staff to arrange this.