Initial experiences of an in-reach service providing iron infusions in residential aged care facilities

Objective: To examine the feasibility of developing an in-reach parenteral iron infusion service to residents of residential aged care facilities (RACFs). Methods: An audit comparing the use of iron infusions in RACFs prior to and following the introduction of an in-reach iron infusion service. Results: Of the 738 inpatient iron infusions administered to inpatients ≥65 years in the 12 months prior to the in-reach service, 52 (7%) lived in an RACF, with no significant adverse events reported. After implementation of an in-reach service, a total of 37 RACF residents received parenteral iron in the first 12 months of the service, with no significant adverse events reported. Conclusion: It is possible to safely provide parenteral iron through an in-reach service to residents in RACF. Further research is required to identify the person-level benefits achieved by this service.