Patient education and communication in non-inpatient intravenous therapy--a review

This paper reviews patient education and communication elements of non-inpatient intravenous therapy schemes in the United States and the United Kingdom. Common characteristics of these services include: definition of the components of the scheme at all levels; patient selection; patient education; and good communications. A metaplan carried out among UK healthcare professionals highlighted education and communication issues as important factors for ensuring successful therapy. Communication issues are difficult to define or modify. Specific experience from the United States and the United Kingdom is presented and the common elements in these programmes are emphasized. Results of the assessment of patient education are presented. This collective experience may prove useful for other centres setting up similar therapy schemes.