Standards for infusion therapy 4th Ed.

Welcome to the fourth edition of the RCN’s Standards for Infusion Therapy, sections of which have been updated to reflect changes in the delivery or commissioning of care since this guidance was last published in 2010. This edition features a dedicated section on patient safety and quality (Section 2) and one on patient experiences and infusion therapy. There is also a new section on service development (Section 10), reflecting the role of commissioning in IV therapy and the continued development of outpatient/home parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPHAT) services. Certain specialist areas are now considered beyond the scope of this document; for example specific infusion devices such as the ‘Ommaya reservoir’ and apheresis (see Section 8.9 of this publication). Where available or appropriate, the reader is signposted to local policies/ guidelines and/or websites for further information.