[Subcutaneous infusions for geriatric patients: rediscovery of an "old" technique]

Giving fluids via the subcutaneous route is a safe and effective technique for the prophylaxis and for the treatment of dehydration. Side effects occur rarely when using this access route compared to the intravenous route, which has a much higher rate of side effects. Subcutaneous infusions can be used to treat inpatients in a hospital setting, in nursing homes, and in patients living at home. One great advantage of the subcutaneous route is that it is not necessary to have a physician to prepare a subcutaneous line, which can also be performed by trained nursing staff. Agitated patients who frequently pull out their lines themselves are a group where the subcutaneous route is particularly useful. Subcutaneous infusions can avoid the necessity for admission of geriatric patients to a hospital.