Case Report: Reintroduction of winged infusion sets to needle syringe programs - advancing equity in harm reduction
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By
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Caroline James
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Vendula Belackova
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Wendy Machin
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Olivia Thackeray
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Louisa Jansen
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Danielle Resiak
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Nina Hutchinson
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Ian Anderson
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Nicholas Rich
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Phillip Read
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June 10, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Case Study: Reintroduction of Winged Infusion Sets in Needle and Syringe Programs - Enhancing Equity in Harm Reduction Efforts
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | |
| Key Mechanisms | Distribution of winged infusion sets and larger-volume syringes to facilitate safer intravenous methadone administration. |
| Target Population | |
| Care Setting | |
Key Highlights
- NSW NSPs reintroduced winged infusion sets and larger-volume syringes in January 2023.
- Kirketon Road Centre began distributing 'butterfly packs' in April 2023.
- Significant increase in NSP visits for methadone injection reported post-implementation.
- 89% of surveyed clients reported improved health or safety after accessing butterfly packs.
- Policy change addresses health equity for people injecting methadone.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Monitor for opioid use disorder and related health issues in clients.
Management
- Provide access to safer injecting equipment and harm reduction education.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Audit service delivery and client outcomes regularly.
Risks
- Be aware of the risks associated with methadone injection, including overdose and infection.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals who inject methadone, including those using prescribed and non-prescribed methadone.
Injecting methadone is discouraged due to associated risks; however, harm reduction strategies are being implemented.
Clinical Best Practices
- Integrate harm reduction education into service delivery.
- Ensure availability of naloxone training and testing for infectious diseases.
- Tailor services based on client vulnerability and needs.
Related Resources & Content
