An infusion is a medical procedure that delivers fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a person’s bloodstream. This method bypasses the digestive system, allowing for rapid absorption and precise control over the dosage of the administered substance. Infusions are a common and widely used technique in modern healthcare for various therapeutic purposes.
How Infusions are Administered
Infusions are administered intravenously (IV), meaning into a vein, most often in the arm or hand. A healthcare professional inserts a thin plastic tube, called an IV catheter, into the selected vein. This catheter is then secured, allowing for multiple doses without repeated needle sticks.
The IV catheter connects to tubing, which leads to an IV bag containing the fluid or medication. An electronic pump is often used to control the rate at which the substance drips into the bloodstream, ensuring precise and steady delivery. Gravity can also be used for delivery.
Common Medical Applications
Infusions serve various purposes in medicine, particularly when oral administration is not feasible or effective. They are used for rehydration, especially when patients cannot drink fluids due to severe dehydration, vomiting, or surgical recovery. Infusion therapy also delivers antibiotics for serious infections, such as meningitis or severe pneumonia, when oral medication is ineffective.
Infusions also administer chemotherapy drugs, allowing direct delivery to target cancer cells. They provide rapid and controlled pain relief for conditions like post-operative pain or severe migraines. For patients unable to receive adequate nutrition orally, infusions can provide total parenteral nutrition (TPN), delivering essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream. Additionally, infusions enable the rapid delivery of emergency medications in acute situations, like anaphylactic shock or heart attack.
Types of Substances Delivered
A wide array of substances can be delivered through infusions, categorized by their therapeutic function.
Fluids
Fluids like saline and dextrose solutions are commonly infused to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance, often used during surgery or for sudden fluid loss.
Medications
Medications constitute a large category of infused substances. This includes antibiotics for bacterial infections, chemotherapy drugs for cancer, and biologics, which are complex medications used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease. Pain medications, antifungals for fungal infections, and antiviral drugs for conditions like HIV or hepatitis are also delivered via infusion.
Blood Products
Blood products represent another type of substance infused. This encompasses whole blood, red blood cells for anemia, plasma, and platelets for clotting disorders or significant blood loss.
Nutrients
Nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fats, are administered through infusions.
Immunoglobulin
Immunoglobulin replacement therapy is also given via infusion to boost the immune system in individuals with immunodeficiency disorders.
Preparing for and Undergoing an Infusion
Preparing for an infusion involves discussing the treatment plan with your doctor and asking any questions you may have. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water the day before your appointment can make vein access easier. Eating a light, nutritious meal beforehand can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent nausea or lightheadedness during the session.
During the infusion, patients sit comfortably in a reclining chair. Wearing loose-fitting, layered clothing can enhance comfort and allow easy access to the infusion site, usually an arm. The duration of an infusion varies widely, from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the medication and dosage. Healthcare professionals monitor patients throughout the process to ensure safety and comfort, observing for any reactions. Minor sensations like coldness at the infusion site or feeling tired afterward are common.