After you have found the right infusion centers near me, preparing your first infusion therapy appointment, it’s normal to feel nervous and have questions. Understanding what to expect and having some answers to your questions beforehand will help calm your nerves and put you at ease during your treatment.
What to Expect During Infusion Therapy
During infusion therapy, a healthcare professional will administer your medication intravenously (through an IV) directly into your bloodstream. While the overall process is simple, there are some standard expectations to know before your first infusion therapy appointment:
Expect attentive care.
An experienced, registered nurse will place an intravenous catheter in your arm or hand which infuses the medications into your body. Administering the medication through IV allows it to immediately reach your bloodstream, providing faster relief from symptoms. Throughout the process, the administrator will check in frequently to answer questions and provide a reassuring presence during the appointment.
Expect a comfortable environment.
At facilities like PACT Infusion Center, you’re provided with on-site parking, WiFi, Netflix, television, and similar accommodations, allowing patients to relax in fully reclining chairs and to make the process as comfortable as possible.
Expect access to resources.
Many infusion centers offer resources close by to make your care as streamline as possible. Should you need additional resources such as testing or care from a medical doctor at PACT Infusion Center, we have them close by. Physicians are available on-site at all times and we provide an on-site laboratory for routine blood tests as well.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my appointment take?
The length of time will vary based on medication, dosage, and other variables. Your first appointment may take longer to allow time for your assigned infusion team to explain the process. It’s also not uncommon for your care team to administer the first dose at a slow pace to ensure no reactions occur. After your first appointment, most infusion therapy appointments range from 30 minutes to several hours.
Appointment times may also be longer if your doctor orders labs before or after treatment.
Are there any side effects of infusion therapy?
Side effects of infusion therapy, if any, will depend on the medication and your body’s reaction to it. We’ll work with your doctor to review all current medications and medical history beforehand to narrow down the best medication option for you.
Common side effects of infusion medications are:
Fatigue
Nausea
Muscle soreness or stiffness
Itchiness at the injection site
Headaches
Dizziness
As with any new medication, there is always a chance of an allergic reaction. While these situations are rare, our nurses, doctors, and staff have protocols and resources in place to intervene quickly should an adverse reaction occur.
Who administers my medication at an infusion center?
IV infusions are administered by qualified healthcare providers such as a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, medical doctor, and other licensed medical experts. At PACT Infusion Center, our three, full-time registered nurses have years of experience in infusing biologics and administer more than 2000 infusions per year.
How You Can Best Prepare to Help Ensure A Smooth, Easy Experience
Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Make sure to follow your doctor’s advice when it comes to preparing your body for an infusion appointment. Depending on the infusion you receive, your doctor may advise you to hydrate, follow a certain diet, or take/avoid another medication prior to the appointment.
Write down your questions.
If you have questions, write them down beforehand. It’s common to forget important questions when feeling nervous, so this ensures all of your questions are answered at your appointment.
Bring a support person.
If the presence of a friend or loved one eases your mind, feel free to bring them along. Talk to your doctor and infusion team if you plan to bring a minor with you (and remember you will likely be seated for the majority of your appointment).
Bring items to stay busy.
Feel free to bring your favorite book, puzzle, tablet, or other item to help you pass the time. You can use the time to relax, too, but many patients use the time as an opportunity for activities that they enjoy and keep them distracted.
Bring a snack.
If your doctor says it’s okay to eat during an appointment, feel free to bring your favorite snack to your appointment.
Dress comfortably.
Dress comfortably to ensure your visit is as relaxing as possible. This also makes it easier for nurses to check vital signs during your appointment.
Clear your schedule.
Account for the time you’ll need before, during, and after each appointment. This is especially true if it’s your first appointment, as any potential side effects you’ll experience are unknown. It’s common for many patients to need rest following an appointment, so try to clear your schedule as much as possible on infusion days.
Schedule an Appointment at PACT Infusion Center
At PACT Infusion Center, our team has more than two decades of experience in infusing biologics to provide our patient’s relief from a number of autoimmune conditions, deficiencies, and more. We’re committed to answering all of our patient’s questions and providing a comfortable environment to receive life-altering infusion medication therapy.
If you have questions about infusion therapy or would like to schedule an appointment, call (203) 281-5114.
About PACT
Physicians Alliance of Connecticut (PACT) is a multi-specialty medical group led and operated by more than 50 physician members. We are committed to healthcare excellence, innovation, safety, and quality in private-practice patient care in the New Haven area of Connecticut.