Chemotherapy pumps

This page tells you about chemotherapy pumps. There is information about

Having chemo by chemotherapy pump
Looking after the pump

Chemotherapy pumps are also called infusion pumps. When chemotherapy is given through a central line or a PICC line a pump can be attached to give a controlled amount of drugs very slowly into your bloodstream. There are different types of pumps.

If you are staying in hospital for chemotherapy you will have your chemotherapy through a pump that is attached to a drip stand. The drip stand is on wheels so you can walk about with it.

Photograph showing a nurse setting up an IV pump that you have in hospital

There are also pumps that you can go home with. Most of these pumps are continuous pressure pumps which means that they don't need a battery. This type of pump is quite small. You can carry it in a bag or belt holster which you will be given at the hospital.

Photograph of a continuous pressure pump for chemotherapy

You may need to have your continuous pressure pump changed from time to time. You can

Go back to the hospital to have this done
Have a home chemotherapy or district nurse change it at home

The nurse shows you – or a family member or friend – how to look after the pump. If you have problems or questions when you get home, contact your chemotherapy nurse at the hospital or chemotherapy unit.

If you are nervous about being at home with the pump and the chemotherapy, talk to your doctor or specialist nurse. Once your questions are answered, you may feel better about it. If you would like more information about anything to do with infusion pumps, contact our cancer information nurses. They will be happy to help.