The first Subcutaneous Pembrolizumab has been delivered in the Judy Beard Day Unit at Conquest Hospital.
This faster, more comfortable cancer treatment replaces an IV infusion that previously required up to two hours in the unit.
Hannah Davis – Nurse Team Ward Manager/Matron said: “Patients receiving pembrolizumab at the Judy Beard Day Unit can now benefit from a quick 1 to 2 minute injection, thanks to the introduction of the new subcutaneous formulation.
“This simple under the skin injection replaces an IV infusion that previously required up to two hours in the unit.
“For patients, that means less time in hospital and more time back at home or doing what matters most.”
Chris who was the first patient to receive this treatment said: “The injection was really easy and didn’t hurt.”
Pembrolizumab is an important immunotherapy used across 14 cancer types, helping the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells.
The switch to subcutaneous delivery not only improves comfort and convenience for patients but also creates valuable capacity for staff to treat more people, supporting the wider NHS effort to streamline cancer care.
Photo: Clare Martin (SACT RGN – JBDU/CONQ), Chris Kimber (Patient) and Hannah Davis (Nurse Team Ward Manager).