Patient Education

What you should know before therapy!

Before undergoing any therapy, it is essential for patients to have a clear understanding of the process and its implications. Here are some key points that patients should be aware of before getting therapy:

Purpose and Benefits

Understand why you are receiving the therapy and the potential benefits it offers. Discuss the intended outcomes with your healthcare provider and ensure it aligns with your treatment goals.

Risks and Side Effects

Be informed about the potential risks and side effects associated with the therapy. Ask your healthcare provider about any possible complications or adverse reactions that may occur and how they will be managed.

Alternative Options

Inquire about alternative treatment options that may be available and discuss their benefits and drawbacks compared to the therapy being proposed. It’s important to have a comprehensive understanding of all available choices.

Procedure Details

Familiarize yourself with the procedure itself. Understand what it entails, how it will be administered, and the expected duration. If there are any specific instructions or preparations required beforehand, make sure to follow them accordingly

Success Rate and Expectations:

Discuss the success rate of the therapy and have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes. Your healthcare provider can provide insights into the typical response to treatment and what results you can anticipate.

Follow-up Care

Inquire about any necessary follow-up care after the therapy. Understand if there are any post-treatment medications, lifestyle adjustments, or additional appointments that will be required for optimal results and ongoing monitoring.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Clarify the cost of the therapy and whether it is covered by your insurance plan. It’s crucial to be aware of any potential financial implications and explore reimbursement options or payment plans if needed.

Informed Consent

Before proceeding with the therapy, ensure you have given informed consent. This means understanding the details, risks, and benefits of the treatment and providing your consent voluntarily. If you have any concerns or questions, discuss them with your healthcare provider before giving consent.

What to remember

Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider is essential. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek clarification, and voice any concerns you may have. Being well-informed and actively involved in your treatment decisions can contribute to a more positive and effective therapy experience.

Potential risks to consider with IV therapy and IM injections

Patients should be aware of certain normal occurrences and potential changes in their condition related to IV therapy and IM (intramuscular) injections. Here are some important points to consider:

Pain or discomfort at the injection site

It’s common to experience mild pain, redness, or swelling at the site of injection. This usually resolves on its own within a short period.

Bruising

Bruising at the injection site can occur, especially with IM injections. It typically fades over time but can be uncomfortable temporarily.

Fluctuations in fluid levels

IV therapy involves the administration of fluids, which can lead to changes in urine output and overall fluid balance in the body.

Changes in vital signs

IV therapy can affect blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. These changes are usually monitored and managed by healthcare professionals during the treatment.

Allergic reactions

Some patients may experience mild allergic reactions to certain medications or fluids used in IV therapy. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing, it’s important to notify your healthcare provider immediately.

Nausea or dizziness

Occasionally, patients may feel lightheaded or experience mild nausea during or after IV therapy. This is usually temporary and can be managed by adjusting the infusion rate or administering medications if necessary.

Improved symptoms

In many cases, patients may experience relief from their symptoms after receiving IV therapy or IM injections. This can include improved hydration, reduced pain, and better control of certain medical conditions.

Transient side effects

Some medications or fluids used in IV therapy and IM injections may cause mild side effects, such as temporary drowsiness, headache, or upset stomach.

It’s essential for patients to communicate any changes in their condition or any unusual symptoms they may experience during or after IV therapy or IM injections. Healthcare providers are trained to monitor and address any potential issues that may arise during the treatment process. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare team.

Post-infusion patient education

• Leave your bandage/gauze on for at least 15 minutes after your treatment
• Keep the puncture area site clean and dry after you remove your bandage
• Avoid showing, bathing, or exposing the puncture site to water for at least 1 hour after your treatment
• Avoid strenuous activity or stressing the puncture site for 24 hours after your treatment
• It can be expected to have mild pain and/or mild bruising at the insertion site

When should I call the nurse or seek medical attention?

• If you develop any loss of sensation or numbness in the extremity where the IV was inserted
• If you developed repeated or worsening swelling at the puncture site
• If bleeding from the puncture site develops and will not stop even after pressure is applied for 15 minutes
• If redness or streaking develops around the puncture site
• If you develop shortness of breath, rash, itching sensation, swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or other signs of an allergic reaction.
• If you develop a fever

Patient Contraindications

Presence of the following may restrict patients from therapy clearance out of safety and consideration of the patient’s healthcare profile

• Congestive heart failure (CHF)
• Hemophilia or history of uncontrolled bleeding
• If SBP>170mmHg or DBP >110mmHg
• If O2 sats <90%
• Impaired renal or liver function (acute or chronic)
• Kidney Stones or Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Glucose-6-Phosphate-Dehydrogenase Deficiency (G6PD)
• Iron Overload
• Myasthenia Gravis
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding contraindications – always act on side of caution, contact MD for any questions or concerns
  Standard dose is maximum dose if pregnant