Evaluating nurse preferences for a novel on-body delivery system vs. manual syringes for large-volume subcutaneous drug administration: a survey study

Abstract

While nurses report challenges with the manual administration of large-volume subcutaneous drugs, these challenges and potential solutions are not captured in the literature. In this cross-sectional study, 45 nurses with experience administering large-volume subcutaneous biologics completed an 18-item survey about preferences for syringes vs. on-body delivery systems. 100% responded that an on-body delivery system seemed easy to learn and use and preferable to syringes. In a drug delivery scenario including comprehensive administration details and assuming equivalent safety and efficacy, 97.78% preferred the on-body delivery system to a daratumumab/hyaluronidase syringe. In the total sample, this preference was primarily attributed to (1) reduced nurse effort due to hands-free delivery, (2) decreased patient pain due to a thinner needle, (3) elimination of needlestick injuries due to a hidden needle, and (4) increased clinic efficiency due to hands-free delivery. 95.56% felt that the on-body delivery system would improve clinic throughput better than syringes. Nurses reported that an on-body delivery system would be easy to learn and use and would improve clinic efficiency and safety. They underscored the importance of decreasing nurse physical burden, needlestick injuries, and patient needle phobia. Contrary to the assumption that speed is paramount, nurses prioritized reducing effort, enhancing administration safety, and improving patient comfort over injection speed.