A continuous subcutaneous infusion (CSCI) is an effective method of drug administration and useful in palliative care when the oral route is no longer appropriate or feasible (Dickman and Schneider, 2011). This may be due to a range of reasons, including transition towards end of life or where a complex symptom such as pain or nausea and vomiting remains unresolved through oral medication. The CSCI may introduce as part of a plan in changing goals of care (Chapter 55).

Although ‘CSCI’ is now a preferred descriptor, the equipment commonly referred to as the ‘syringe driver’ has now more recently been revised to ‘syringe pump’. Historically (occasionally still in use), the Graseby syringe driver was widely used in palliative care. This older type of battery-operated machine measured the rate of medication delivery in millimetres. A number of problems were associated with this in relation to health and safety and its use is, by and large, discontinued.