Background There is little evidence on the use of subcutaneous furosemide infusions in heart failure patients, especially in the community setting (Beattie & Johnson, 2012). Integrated working is key to smooth the transition from management in the hospital to community settings, particularly for patients who are increasingly fatigued with short prognoses but who may still benefit from parenteral therapy.

Aim To retrospectively evaluate clinical effectiveness of subcutaneous furosemide used in the community setting at end-of-life.

Method We reviewed case notes of patients treated with continuous subcutaneous furosemide by the community palliative care team (2019–2021). A standardised proforma was used to assess patient demographics, indications, clinical outcomes and barriers/facilitators to the process.

Results 16 patients received a total 22 interventions. Median age 77(50-94), 11(69%) male, primary HF (Heart failure) diagnosis 6 HFrEF, 5 HFpEF,2 RHF, 2 Valvular, 1 unknown aetiology.

Phase of Illness, 13 unstable and 9 deteriorating with AKPS 30-60%. Oral diuretics included loop diuretics (furosemide 15/22 and bumetanide 6/22), aldosterone receptor antagonists (spironolactone 4/22), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (eplerenone 11/22) and thiazides (indapamide 1/22). Majority of interventions had stage 3 renal function (16/22 episodes). Patients were discussed with cardiology or palliative care consultant. Median dose given was 160mg (range 80-240mg) for 11(1-33) days.

Outcomes 15/22 showed symptomatic improvement, 6/22 had side-effects including worsening renal function, hypotension, hypokalaemia and site reaction needing antibiotics. 21/22 interventions avoided a hospital admission; 12/16 patients achieved preferred place of death (1 was admitted to hospital; 3 alive). Barriers to community administration included: challenges obtaining medications, burden of a continuous sub cutaneous infusion [CSCI].

Conclusion There is a clear benefit for individual patients, allowing those in last year of life to spend as much time as possible at home. We plan to develop a decision support tool to aid wider community decision making, facilitating timely use of subcutaneous furosemide, therefore maintaining effective symptom control in community settings.