Cautions regarding use of etonogestrel contraceptive implant

Cautions including any relevant action to be taken

• If the individual is less than 16 years of age an assessment based on Fraser guidelines must be made and documented.
• If the individual is less than 13 years of age the healthcare professional should speak to local safeguarding lead and follow the local safeguarding policy.
• If the individual is taking any anticoagulant therapy, an experienced clinician should perform the procedure due to the risk of bleeding and a pressure bandage should be applied after insertion. See Management of women taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications who request intrauterine contraception or subdermal implants for information about timing the insertion in relation to the anticoagulant dose

Discuss with appropriate medical/independent non-medical prescriber any medical condition or medication of which the healthcare professional is unsure or uncertain

Reference:

1. Patient Group Direction (PGD) (NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service). Insertion of etonogestrel (e.g. Nexplanon®) 68mg subdermal implant for contraception . (Accessed 17th March 2021)