Are you feeling anxious about starting infusion therapy? It’s not unusual, and California Specialty Pharmacy’s (CSP) care team wants to make you as comfortable as possible before, during, and after your therapy.  

Whether you are having your infusion at home or at one of our Ambulatory Infusion Centers (AIC), our specialty infusion care team will ensure a seamless infusion process.   

Your provider has prescribed a therapy or treatment for your condition that must be administered intravenously (IV). So, what comes next?  

Before Your Infusion

• Specialty Pharmacist Review:  Your provider will communicate your condition and medical history, including your medication list, to one of our specialty pharmacists. The pharmacist then reviews the prescribed medication and coordinates with your CSP care team on the plan of treatment for your care. One of your CSP care team members will contact you (or your caregiver) to review information and educate you on the therapy/treatment. 

• Your Infusion Schedule:  An assigned Nursing Care Coordinator will contact you or your caregiver to schedule your infusion. They will discuss your infusion schedule with you and assist you in deciding the best place to receive your infusion care; whether at home or in one of our infusion suites.  

• Pre-Infusion Instructions:  A CSP Nurse will contact you to review any additional pre-infusion instructions prescribed by your provider. This may include any needed lab work, dietary restrictions, and necessary medications to hold (if any) prior to your infusion day. Your CSP Nurse will also discuss any other important information and answer your questions. Your CSP Care Team works closely with your provider to ensure treatment accuracy and safety.

How to Prepare for Your Infusion 

• Treatment Day:  

• • If you are having your infusion at an AIC, arrive early or on time for your appointment. 

• • Clear your schedule for the day so you don’t feel stressed and make sure you allow time to recover after the infusion. You will want to rest following your infusion. 

• • Notify a care team member if you have a fever or illness, are taking new prescriptions or supplements, or if there have been any other changes since your last visit. 

• • You must wear a face mask to prevent the spread of germs. 

• • A caregiver may accompany you and assist with discharge instructions. 

• • Cable television and high-speed Wi-Fi are available at CSP’s AICs. 

• What To Bring: 

• • Wear loose clothing to stay comfortable. 

• • A shirt with buttons or a zipper in front makes accessing a port easier. A short-sleeved shirt is recommended for accessing PICC lines. 

• • A blanket or sweater is suggested in case you become cold. 

• • A change of clothes in a bag is recommended. 

• • Books, crossword puzzles, electronics, headphones, and other entertainment items may help you pass the time during your infusion. 

• • Snacks or beverages can be consumed during your infusion session, if appropriate (as instructed by your provider).

During Your Infusion 

• Checking Vitals: Members of the care team will check your vital signs before, during, and after the infusion. They also may weigh you and draw blood.  

• Ensure Comfort: You can relax with a book, videos on your phone, a TV show, or even sleep during your infusion. 

• Personal Care: Your nurse will regularly check on you. Pay attention to how you feel and let your nurse know if you have any concerns.  

After Your Infusion 

• Monitoring: Depending on the type of medication, you may need to be monitored after your infusion. Your Nurse will let you know. 

• Discharge: Your nurse will provide discharge instructions and confirm your next infusion.  

• Ask Questions: Be sure to share any of your questions or concerns with the care team any time after the infusion. CSP’s nurses are available 24/7 to answer your questions. 

• Managing Side Effects:  The care team will make you aware of potential side effects from your infusion. If you experience side effects, notify the care team immediately.  

Specialty infusion providers like CSP work closely with you, your caregiver, and your provider to be a trusted resource for managing infusion therapies/treatments. Whether you have your infusion at home, or an ambulatory infusion center (AIC), knowing what to expect may help empower you and reduce any apprehension.  

Legal Disclaimer: 

This blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. Individual experiences with infusion therapy may vary, and healthcare decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice based on a person’s medical history and condition.  

By accessing this blog, you agree to hold harmless the author, publisher, and any associated parties from any claims, liabilities, or damages arising from the use or interpretation of this content. 

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