What to Expect from Your First IVIG Infusion

Start by consulting with your healthcare provider at Jean Walter Infusion Center to understand your treatment plan, including dosage and frequency. The team will explain the treatment’s purpose and any potential side effects, providing reassurance.

• Pre-Infusion Preparation:

Hydration and Rest: Drink plenty of fluids before your infusion to aid the process and reduce side effects like headaches. Ensure you get a good night’s sleep to be well-rested for the procedure.
Nutrition: Have a nutritious meal beforehand to maintain energy levels.

• Day of the Infusion:

Comfortable Attire: Wear loose-fitting clothes for easy access to your arm.
Entertainment: Bring items like a book, headphones, or tablet to stay relaxed and pass the time, as the infusion can take several hours.
Medication List: Provide a list of any current medications to avoid potential interactions.
Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you may feel tired or experience mild side effects.

• During the Infusion:

Communication: Keep an open line with the healthcare team. Inform them immediately if you feel discomfort or unusual symptoms to ensure your safety.

• Post-Infusion Care:

Follow-Up Instructions: Follow any post-care instructions, which may include monitoring for reactions, staying hydrated, and resting.
By following these steps, you can ensure a comfortable and effective first IVIG infusion at Jean Walter Infusion Center. Our team is dedicated to supporting your treatment journey.

Before each session, our healthcare professionals conduct a thorough review of the patient’s medical history and current health status. This step is crucial to confirm that the IVIG therapy is safe and suitable for the patient. Our experienced staff is committed to creating a relaxed environment where patients feel at ease.

During the infusion, patients are comfortably seated or reclined while a skilled healthcare provider carefully selects an appropriate vein for needle insertion. The IVIG solution, sourced from healthy donors, is administered through the intravenous line. We start the infusion at a controlled pace to monitor the patient’s response, minimizing any potential risks of adverse effects.

Our attentive medical team closely observes each patient throughout the session, which can vary in duration based on individual needs. We monitor vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature to ensure the highest level of safety.

As patients tolerate the infusion, we may gradually increase the rate to optimize the therapy. Once the infusion is completed, the needle is removed carefully, and a bandage is applied to the site. Patients are observed briefly afterward to ensure they experience no delayed reactions.

Upon completion of the session, our healthcare providers offer guidance on post-infusion care, emphasizing the importance of hydration and awareness of any delayed side effects.

Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to evaluate the treatment’s effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to future sessions. Our dedicated team is here to support our patients every step of the way, ensuring a personalized and effective infusion therapy experience.

At Jean Walter Infusion Center, we prioritize your comfort and well-being during your infusion therapy sessions. Here are some personalized strategies designed to enhance your experience and recovery at our facility:

• Before Your Infusion:

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated in the days leading up to your appointment is crucial. Adequate hydration ensures your veins are more accessible, facilitating a more comfortable IV insertion process.
Comfortable Attire: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that provides easy access to your arm or port area. This helps prevent unnecessary pressure or irritation during your infusion.

• During Your Infusion:

Relaxation Techniques: We encourage relaxation during your session. Consider practicing deep breathing exercises or listening to calming music to reduce anxiety. Our team can provide recommendations for relaxation apps or playlists.
Entertainment Options: Bringing a book or a device to watch your favorite shows can serve as a pleasant distraction.
Warmth and Comfort: If you feel cold, don’t hesitate to ask for a warm blanket. Our infusion rooms are equipped with comfort measures to ensure a cozy environment.

• After Your Infusion:

Continued Hydration: Keep hydrating well post-infusion to help your body process the medication effectively. Our staff can provide guidance on optimal fluid intake.
Rest and Recovery: Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. Our team can offer suggestions for gentle activities or relaxation techniques to aid in your recovery.
Pain Management: If you experience any mild pain or discomfort at the infusion site, applying a warm compress can promote better circulation and alleviate soreness. Consult with our healthcare providers about the use of over-the-counter pain relief options like acetaminophen.

At the Jean Walter Infusion Center, we specialize in providing advanced intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy for patients dealing with a variety of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Our commitment is to deliver personalized care that targets the specific symptoms and challenges faced by each individual.

For patients battling autoimmune disorders, our experienced team closely monitors for positive responses to IVIG therapy, such as reductions in joint pain, swelling, and fatigue. Our goal is to help alleviate these symptoms, thereby improving our patients’ quality of life.

In cases of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), the Jean Walter Infusion Center aims to restore muscle strength and reduce sensory disturbances, ultimately aiding in better mobility and coordination. For those experiencing skin-related conditions, we track the reduction of lesions or rashes, which can indicate successful treatment outcomes.

At the Jean Walter Infusion Center our ongoing assessment and personalized care plans are integral to our practice, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible outcomes from their treatment. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Rosedale MD, Columbia MD, Glen Burnie MD, Catonsville MD, North Baltimore MD, Edgewater MD, Parkville MD, Middle River MD, Dundalk MD, Halethrope MD, Ellicott City MD, Laurel MD, Hebbville MD, and Woodlawn MD.