Learn how safely disconnecting your chemotherapy infusion pump at home can save time, reduce hospital visits, and give you more control over your treatment.
If you're receiving chemotherapy through a continuous infusion pump, you're likely familiar with the small portable device that delivers medication over 24-48 hours. Traditionally, patients return to the clinic to have their pumps disconnected, but there's an increasingly popular option that many treatment centers now offer: disconnecting the pump at home.
Many chemotherapy regimens use portable infusion pumps to deliver medication continuously over one or two days. Common regimens that use these pumps include:
These small, portable pumps allow you to receive your chemotherapy infusion while at home, connected through your central line or port. The pump typically delivers medication for 24-48 hours before needing to be disconnected.
If you're new to continuous infusion therapy, you may hear your healthcare team mention "central lines" or "ports." These are specialized devices that provide reliable access to your bloodstream for chemotherapy delivery:
Port (Implanted Port): A small device surgically placed under the skin, typically in your chest. It's completely hidden under the skin when not in use, and a special needle is inserted through the skin to access it. Ports are designed for long-term use (months to years) and require minimal maintenance - just monthly flushing when not in regular use. They allow you to shower, swim, and participate in most activities normally once healed. Ports are the most common choice for home disconnection programs because they're more secure and have lower infection risk.
Central Line (PICC Line): A thin tube inserted into a vein in your upper arm and threaded toward your heart. Unlike a port, it has external tubing visible on your arm that requires regular dressing changes and daily flushing. PICC lines are typically used for shorter treatment periods (weeks to months) and can be removed easily without surgery. While less common for home disconnection than ports, PICC lines can also be safely disconnected at home with proper training.
Both devices can be used for home pump disconnection, though your healthcare team will recommend which type is best for your specific treatment plan and whether home disconnection is appropriate for your situation. The disconnection process is similar for both, though port access may require needle removal as an additional step.
According to the Association of Community Cancer Centers, home disconnection programs have become an important part of modern cancer care, offering multiple benefits for patients and healthcare systems alike.
Not all chemotherapy pumps are the same. Understanding the type of pump you have can help you feel more confident about using it at home. The two main types used for continuous infusion are:
Electronic pumps are battery-powered, programmable devices that deliver medication with high precision. Common brands include CADD pumps and similar ambulatory infusion devices.
Key features:
Considerations:
Elastomeric pumps use a simple balloon-like reservoir that's pre-filled with your chemotherapy medication. As the balloon deflates, it pushes medication through at a controlled rate - no batteries or electricity needed.
Key features:
Considerations:
Most patients receiving FOLFOX or similar continuous infusion regimens use one of these pump types. Your healthcare team will choose the pump that best fits your specific treatment protocol and lifestyle needs. The good news is that regardless of which type you have, the home disconnection process is straightforward and safe with proper training.
One of the most significant advantages is time savings. Instead of scheduling another clinic appointment and traveling back to the hospital 46-48 hours after starting your infusion, you can disconnect at home on your own schedule. This means:
During chemotherapy, your immune system may be compromised, making you more vulnerable to infections. By staying home instead of visiting a crowded clinic, you reduce your exposure to:
According to Minnesota Oncology, reducing unnecessary clinic visits is particularly important when patients are immunocompromised or during high viral circulation periods.
Many patients report feeling more empowered when they can manage this aspect of their care at home. The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust notes that patients appreciate:
Research shows that 81% of patients feel very comfortable with self-disconnection, and 98% feel they have the resources needed to safely perform the procedure.
Home disconnection also benefits the healthcare system by:
Yes - with proper training and patient selection, home disconnection is very safe. Healthcare facilities carefully screen patients to ensure they are appropriate candidates for home disconnection. You'll receive:
Your healthcare team will provide:
You'll be sent home with everything needed:
According to UNM Health, proper safety protocols include:
While your healthcare team will provide specific instructions, here's a general overview of what the process involves:
Most patients find the entire process takes 15-20 minutes and becomes easier with practice.
Not everyone is suitable for home disconnection. Your healthcare team will consider:
If you're interested in home disconnection, discuss it with your oncology nurse. Many patients who are initially hesitant find it becomes routine after the first time.
While home disconnection is generally safe, you should contact your healthcare team immediately if:
Your clinic will provide you with 24/7 contact numbers for questions or emergencies.
Patients who regularly disconnect at home offer these helpful suggestions:
Want to see what the disconnection process looks like in real life? Here's a quick demonstration from a FOLFOX patient showing how straightforward it can be:
Note: This is for educational purposes. Always follow your healthcare team's specific instructions for your pump and situation.
Modern healthcare technology can make managing your treatment even easier. Tools like OncoSteps can help you:
While technology can't replace proper training, it can serve as a helpful organizational tool throughout your treatment journey.
Home disconnection of your FOLFOX 5-FU pump represents a positive shift toward patient-centered care. With proper training, clear instructions, and the right supplies, most patients can safely and confidently disconnect their pumps at home.
The benefits are clear: more time, greater comfort, reduced infection risk, and increased autonomy over your treatment. If your treatment center offers this option and you feel comfortable with the process, it's worth considering.
Talk to your oncology team about whether home disconnection is right for you. They can assess your individual situation and provide the training and support you need to succeed.
Remember - you're not alone in this journey. Whether you disconnect at home or at the clinic, your healthcare team is always just a phone call away to support you through every step of your treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare team. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your oncology clinic for pump disconnection.