[Subcutaneous analgesic administration]

In March 1989, Saint Luke's Hospital in Montréal piloted the use of continuous and intermittent subcutaneous injection of analgesics. This practice involved patients whose pain could not be relieved by traditional methods of analgesic administration. The article describes the positive results of the project, and clearly identifies suitable patients. It also outlines the advantages, limiting factors and risks involved with each type of infusion. Procedures for set-up and monitoring are briefly explained. The authors conclude that family members of patients can be easily taught to perform the procedure at home.