Nursing Management of Hepatic Artery Infusion Pumps in Patients With Colorectal Liver Metastases.

BACKGROUND

More than half of patients with colorectal cancer will present with or develop colorectal liver metastases during the course of the disease. A hepatic artery infusion pump (HAIP) has been shown to improve patient outcomes and overall survival, even in previously unresectable tumors.

OBJECTIVES

Although much of the literature focuses on the pump itself, this article provides a guide to nursing considerations for patients with an HAIP, covering the trajectory of care from preoperative through postoperative settings and beyond.

METHODS

A review of the existing literature and knowledge gained from experience resulted in recommendations for nursing management throughout patients' care.

FINDINGS: Recognizing both the common and unique elements of HAIP management can improve patient and nursing competence, normalizing care for these patients. Nurses familiar with HAIP management ensure continuity of care, can anticipate potential complications, and adapt care to meet each patient's evolving needs across healthcare settings from presurgery to postchemotherapy, including educating the patient and family.