HYPODERMOCLYSIS IN ONCOLOGICAL PALLIATIVE CARE: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Objective: This article addresses the treatment of cancer patients, referring to venous fragility induced by cancer treatment, highlighting hypodermoclysis as a therapeutic alternative to provide patient comfort, especially in cases of finitude. Subcutaneous hypodermoclysis stands out as a less invasive, safe and less expensive method for administering substances. However, there is a preference for the intravenous route in clinical practice. Hypodermoclysis has a lower incidence of complications compared to peripheral venipuncture. Therefore, greater dissemination of this knowledge and adopting hypodermoclysis in cancer patients is advisable. Methodology: A systematic review was carried out according to the PRISMA flowchart. Scientific articles were obtained through a search in periodicals published between the years 2012 and 2022 in the databases Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS) and the National Library of Medicine (Pubmed/Medline) using “hypodermoclysis” AND “palliative care” as keywords. Results: Six studies were analyzed, and suggest indications, contraindications, advantages and disadvantages related to subcutaneous use; comparison between peripheral venous access and hypodermoclysis techniques; administration sites; subcutaneous route prescription by professionals, interprofessional action and the pivotal role of pharmacists related to hypodermoclysis. Conclusion: This is a safe and effective alternative for administering medications, especially in patients with venous fragility, but many professionals neglect it. The pharmacist's role is not just important but essential in promoting hypodermoclysis inclusion and leading initiatives for its understanding and applicability.