Infusion Therapy: What to Know and How to Prepare
Infusion therapy, or IV therapy, means medication is administered via a needle injected into a patient’s arm or medication port. This type of treatment is prescribed for chronic illnesses needing the medicine to be delivered directly into the patient’s bloodstream. Patients with a chronic illnesses are already managing issues and concerns about their condition, and an infusion prescription can increase anxiety and apprehension. Being as well-informed and prepared as possible can help alleviate concerns, avoid complications, and ensure you know what to expect.
Ask Questions
It is ok to feel nervous and full of questions. Asking as many questions as possible will put your mind at ease and make you feel prepared and ready for treatment. Compile a list of running questions to ask your provider when the opportunity arises. So you feel confident and informed, never feel like you are asking a dumb question. Knowing about the medication you are receiving and what to expect from the treatment can eliminate any uncertainty you may have.
Knowing What to Expect
If you are facing a challenging diagnosis, receiving a prescription for an infusion treatment may feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect will empower you and make you feel prepared. The nurse administering your infusion will inform you of the steps of the administration process. You will likely be monitored after the infusion is complete to make sure there are no adverse reactions or side effects. Knowing the short and long-term side effects can ready you for what may happen after you receive your infusion.
How to Prepare
On the day of your infusion, it will be helpful to stick to your normal routine. Eating a nutritious meal can help energize and fuel you for the day of treatment. Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of treatment, as being hydrated can help your veins dilate and be better accessible. If you are dehydrated, it may take multiple attempts to have a successful IV insertion. Unless your doctor instructs you differently, there should be no interruption of your prescribed medications, so take your morning medications as you usually would. Dress in loose garments so the administration is more comfortable; short sleeves are ideal to make the IV placement easier. Have blankets or layers available in case you get cold or have fluctuations in temperature. Bring beverages and snacks to help the experience be as comfortable as possible. To avoid complications, be sure to communicate any recent infections or changes in your medical status to the medical team treating you. The infusion will take a while to complete, so bring books, magazines, crosswords, or streaming services to help entertain you during the process.
After Treatment
It is important not to feel rushed or stressed on the day of treatment, so clear your schedule for the day in case any challenges arise. You could have side effects like nausea, headaches, dizziness, or fatigue. You will want to rest, as your body will need time to recover. Remember that the treatment may come with some challenges, but it will help you heal. Specialty pharmacies like PFSP provide in-depth resources to help you understand what to expect and how to have the best infusion treatment process.
PFSP Specialty Pharmacy provides patients and their physicians an exceptionally high standard of care with our growing team of specialized pharmacists and staff. Our dedicated team of pharmacists focus on improving adherence for patients and work to find an approach that works best for them. Bringing a fresh take on what a Specialty Pharmacy can and should be, we are committed to the care of our patients. We take pride in being an ethical resource within our community and strive each day to help our patients live enriching and full lives.
