Hepatic Arterial Infusion Pump Complications and nursing management regarding use in patients with colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND: The hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) pump is a treatment-delivery method based on the principle of targeting the tumor site directly and can be used alone or in combination with systemic chemotherapy. OBJECTIVES: The intent of this article is to serve as a resource for oncology nurses to safely identify and manage HAI pump complications. These complications include seroma, flipped HAI pump, infection, changes in pressure and temperature, challenging access, dry pump, high residual volume, chemical hepatitis, risk of ulcer, and radiologic imaging considerations. METHODS: The authors performed a literature review to provide a foundation for nurses to be able to manage HAI pump infusions. FINDINGS: The literature review revealed minimal nursing resources to manage complications with an HAI pump. Resources to manage complications are crucial for safely administering medications and properly maintaining the function of the pump. Attention to patient education should be incorporated in nursing practice.