What is a common risk associated with home infusion therapy?

Infection is a common risk associated with home infusion therapy because it involves placing catheters or other devices directly into the bloodstream or under the skin to administer medications. When these devices are inserted, there is an inherent risk of bacteria or other pathogens entering the body, which can lead to serious infections at the site of insertion or systemically. Proper sterilization techniques and maintenance of the infusion site are crucial in minimizing this risk.

While increased mobility can be seen as a benefit of home infusion, it is not a risk. Improved recovery time is another potential benefit linked to the patient's ability to receive treatment in a comfortable environment and better adhere to their medication schedule. Likewise, lower drug costs may result from the ability to manage therapy at home, but this does not directly relate to the risks posed by the method itself. Therefore, the focus on infection highlights the critical aspect of patient safety in the context of home infusion therapy.