Infusion treatments involve delivering medication or fluids directly into the body, typically through a needle or catheter. This method allows for controlled and efficient administration of substances that cannot be taken orally or require precise dosing. Infusion therapy is commonly used in various medical settings to address a wide range of health conditions.
Why Infusion Treatments Are Used
Infusion treatments are necessary when oral medication is not feasible or effective. Some medications lose their potency when exposed to the digestive system, making direct delivery into the bloodstream a more reliable option. Infusion therapy ensures that the medication reaches the target area quickly and at the intended concentration, leading to a faster and more effective response. This rapid action is particularly beneficial in emergency situations, such as anaphylactic shock or heart attack, where immediate drug delivery is crucial.
Many chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders like Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis, often require infusion therapy. Chemotherapy for cancer is frequently administered via infusion, allowing direct delivery of drugs into the bloodstream and enabling the simultaneous administration of anti-nausea medications. Infections unresponsive to oral antibiotics, severe dehydration, and immune deficiencies are also commonly treated with infusions.
How Infusion Treatments Are Administered
The most common method for administering infusion treatments is intravenously (IV), directly into a vein. This involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, typically in the hand or arm, which is then secured with tape. The catheter connects to tubing that leads to a bag containing the medication or fluid, allowing it to drip into the bloodstream. Often, an electronic pump regulates the flow rate, ensuring precise and controlled delivery of the substance.
While IV administration is prevalent, other methods are used depending on the medication and patient needs. Subcutaneous infusions involve injecting medication into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, commonly in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. This route is often used for smaller doses or for continuous administration of certain medications like insulin or some growth hormones. Another method is intramuscular infusion, where medication is injected directly into muscle tissue, allowing for rapid absorption and slow release into the bloodstream.
What to Expect During an Infusion Session
Infusion sessions typically occur in hospitals, outpatient centers, or at home. The duration of a session can vary significantly, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the specific medication and the individual’s condition. Before the infusion begins, a healthcare professional will usually take vital signs and review the patient’s medical history and current medications.
During the infusion, patients are often seated comfortably in reclining chairs, and warm blankets may be provided. Medical staff closely monitor the patient for any reactions or discomfort, and alarms on infusion pumps alert nurses to any issues with flow rate or completion. Patients are encouraged to bring entertainment like books, tablets, or headphones. After the infusion is complete, the IV line is removed, and the patient may be monitored for a short period before discharge, with any potential side effects like mild nausea or fatigue usually subsiding within a few hours.