The Resurgence Of An Old Hydration Technique - Hypodermoclysis

Often an acute illness affects the ability of an elderly client or resident to keep up with the demands of sufficient water intake by mouth and rehydration via another means become necessary. Anyone who has attempted an IV catheter insertion on an elderly dehydrated patient KNOWS the frustration and often the impossibility of the task. Due to the fact of very difficult cannulations in dehydrated individuals, we are seeing a resurgence of an old technique of rehydration called hypodermoclysis or sometimes simply called “clysis”. Clysis is an optimal means of administering non-emergent subcutaneous parenteral fluids. The technique is a valuable strategy for SNF’s, LTC facilities, LTAC’s and home health agencies to reduce unnecessary hospitalizations – a major focus in the health care industry today.

Hypodermoclysis is cost-effective, easy to administer, and safer than intravenous rehydration, but many nurses and healthcare practitioners are unfamiliar with the therapy. Pedagogy Inc. has developed an online continuing education course that will prepare the licensed nurse or other licensed caregivers to provide this valuable intervention, thereby decreasing the risk of hospitalization with its associated risks and costs.