IV infusion therapy is typically administered in a clinical environment, such as a doctor’s office, hospital, outpatient facility, or infusion center. In some cases, healthcare providers can administer certain types of infusion therapy at home.
Each IV session involves new needle sticks. If you anticipate needing multiple IV therapy sessions, your doctor might suggest alternatives to a standard IV line. Central lines can be inserted into your chest, arm, neck, or groin and can remain in place for an extended period.
Another option is to have a port surgically implanted under your skin. In subsequent treatments, the needle can be inserted into the port, allowing access to the vein without repeated needle sticks. The port will be surgically removed once your treatments are complete.
Regardless of the setting, IV therapy is administered by nurses or other trained medical professionals. The procedure requires careful monitoring. If the process is expected to take more than a few minutes, a control mechanism is usually attached to the line to ensure proper delivery. Continuous or remote monitoring always accompanies infusion therapy.
Depending on the medication, it may be pre-prepared or prepared immediately before use.
If the infusion is expected to last several hours in an outpatient setting, a reclining chair is typically provided. You can bring reading materials, blankets, or other items to help you feel comfortable.
Before starting, your nurse will perform several checks to verify:
- Your identity
- The correct medication and dosage
- The correct time, as some medications are given at a specific time of day or for a specific duration
- The correct route, such as vein, injection, or port
A needle will be inserted into the port or a suitable vein, usually in the arm. A tube will connect it to an IV bag containing the medication. The bag will be hung so that the solution drips into your bloodstream. Depending on your specific treatment, multiple IV bags may be required.
IV Infusion Therapy
The length of each treatment depends on the medication and your particular condition. It could range from 30 minutes to several hours.
You will typically receive plenty of fluids, so don’t be surprised if you need to use the bathroom. You will be able to bring the IV pole with you, but be sure to inform those monitoring you beforehand.
Once the medication has been dispensed, the catheter will be removed.
