Abstract
Objectives We review consumer satisfaction with the support provided to those with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) treated with subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) at our hospital.
Methods We performed a chart review of all CIDP patients transitioned from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) to SCIg from 2019–2022 at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. We reviewed the education and support process, medication and consumable supply to patients, and assessed patient-reported satisfaction through interview.
Results Five patients were transitioned onto SCIg, 3 patients continuing SCIg at the end of the period and a further 3 patients had commenced education in preparation for transition to SCIg. The same approach was used in all cases: ‘SCIg eligible’ patients were identified by the neuromuscular medical team, and with consent, our SCIg nurse provided initial in-person education at a subsequent IVIG infusion or via telehealth. Patients underwent two supervised SCIg infusions with the SCIg nurse; further training was not required, but could be provided upon evaluation of patient’s experience and self-administering competence. Consumables and SCIg vials are provided by RMH infusion centre and pharmacy, and the patients are reviewed every 8–12 weeks by the treating team and/or SCIg nurse. Four out of 5 patients were available for interview, and all reported the medication was ‘very easy’ to administer as instructed, and expressed satisfaction with the process of SCIg education, transition and nursing support.
Conclusions Consumers consistently report a high degree of satisfaction with the process of SCIg education, treatment initiation and ongoing nursing support at our centre.
