The Use of a Syringe Driver

“The Use of a Syringe Driver” Training equips participants with the essential skills and knowledge needed to provide holistic palliative and end-of-life care. Through interactive sessions and practical demonstrations, learners will understand the importance of compassionate care during this critical stage.

Module 1 – Introduction

This course begins by recognising the role of holistic palliative and end-of-life care and the importance of addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.  Open communication and understanding is essential at this time, but initiating difficult conversations naturally challenge many people.  Your trainer guides you to explore how to initiate those difficult conversations with patients, their families and caregivers with confidence and empathy.

Module 2 – Advantages and disadvantages of using a syringe driver

Next, move on to evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of using syringe drivers in palliative care settings, enabling informed decision making.

Module 3 – when to use the syringe driver and which drugs to administer

Having made the decision to utilise a syringe driver, learn about the necessary equipment required for administering drugs through a syringe driver.  Explore the range of commonly used drugs and syringes in palliative care, including the judicious use of medicines beyond their license, while always ensuring patient comfort and safety.

Module 4 – siting the syringe driver

Choosing the correct site for the syringe driver is the next step.  Learn about which sites are appropriate and which sites to avoid to prevent complications.  Explore a number of situations which may arise, and how to troubleshoot and address them safely.

Module 5 – Documentation

Accurately complete documentation related to palliative care, adhering to legal and ethical standards.  Monitor patients to check their condition to ensure optimal comfort and care and document correctly.

Module 6 – Practical session

The Syringe Driver Training completes with a practical session.  Each attendee practices setting up the infusion pumps until confident.  After the pump has been set up correctly, precise medication administration is demonstrated with a strong focus on patient wellbeing.

Outcome

By the end of this course, participants will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide compassionate and comprehensive palliative and end-of-life care, utilising syringe drivers, enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families during challenging times.

Is this course just for nurses?

No, “The Use of a Syringe Driver” training is suitable for nurses and senior care staff who wish to learn how to undertake syringe driver care.

Is the person delivering the course medically qualified?

Yes, all of our clinical courses are delivered by clinical staff such as nurses, paramedics etc.

How long is the course?

The course is a full day’s training.

Will I set up the infusion pump?

Yes, all participants will be given the opportunity to set up the infusion pump.

Is this a nursing qualification?

No, this is not a nursing qualification. The syringe driver course is specifically designed to prepare nursing and non-nursing staff to work with syringe drivers with confidence and competence.  To learn about how nursing can become a career in social care click here.

What other end of life courses are available through Coleman Training?

Why not sign up to our holistic End of Life workshop?