Advanced Practice Nursing Issues

Subcutaneous Immunoglobulin in Oncology Clinical Practice

Erin Streu

supportive care, leukemia/lymphoma, evidence-based practice
CJON 2016, 20(4), 437-439. DOI: 10.1188/16.CJON.437-439

The administration of gammaglobulin as replacement therapy to boost immune function in patients with immunodeficiency secondary to malignancy is traditionally given in the IV formulation. A pilot program at a large Canadian cancer center led by an advanced practice nurse (APN) demonstrated that transitioning patients to home-based, self-administered subcutaneous infusions (subcutaneous immunoglobulin [SCIG]) led to savings and benefits for patients and the institution. The implementation of SCIG in oncology by an APN is a novel and innovative patient-centered approach to supportive care.

At a Glance

  • Replacement therapy of gammaglobulin may be safely administered via slow subcutaneous infusions in the home setting.
  • Transitioning patients from IV gammaglobulin to SCIG promotes patient engagement, independence, and autonomy.
  • Development, implementation, and evaluation of an SCIG program represents one role an APN can play in oncology clinical care.
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