Frequently Asked Questions: Infusion Center
How many visitors can I have?
Why is my first infusion longer than the others?
Everyone responds differently to medication. During your first treatment, we give each medication separately to see how your body reacts. This helps us identify which drug might be causing a reaction, if one occurs. Because of this, your first infusion usually takes 30 minutes to one hour longer than later treatments. Some medications also run more slowly the first time to make sure you tolerate them well. If you do, future infusions can often be given over a shorter period.
Why is my nurse wearing protective gear?
Why am I not wearing protective gear?
Your medication is delivered directly into your bloodstream through an IV or a subcutaneous injection, so it shouldn’t come into contact with your skin or clothing. If medication does touch your skin or clothes, your care team will guide you through what to do, such as washing the area with soap and water or removing soiled clothing.
What is a reaction?
- A reaction happens when your body responds to medication. Symptoms vary by person and by drug.
Common signs of a reaction include:
- Tingling near the IV site
- Skin rash
- Shortness of breath or cough
- Dizziness
- Changes in vital signs (heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure, or temperature)
- Chest tightness
Am I likely to have a reaction?
Every patient is different, and there’s no way to predict who will have a reaction. Some medications carry a higher risk than others. If you’re receiving one of these medications, your care team will discuss the risks with you before treatment.
What happens if I have a reaction?
- If you experience a reaction, your care team will follow a specific protocol to keep you safe. This may include:
- Stopping the medication
- Starting a normal saline flush
- Alerting a provider
- Checking your vital signs frequently
- Giving medications such as Benadryl, Pepcid, or Solu-Medrol
- Monitoring your recovery
Once your symptoms have resolved, your provider may decide to restart the medication.
Can I take my premeditations at home?
When should I take my premedications?
Why do I need to wear cold mitts or boots during treatment?
Some medications can cause neuropathy—numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in your hands or feet. Wearing cold mitts or boots during your infusion may help reduce this side effect. We recommend wearing thin gloves and socks under the cold gear to protect your skin. If you don’t have any, we can provide protective covers. These devices are optional but can be helpful for prevention.
Why do some patients wear cold caps?
Can I bring food or drinks?
Are snacks or drinks available at the infusion center?
Yes. We offer water, juice, soda, and a variety of snacks. If you have special dietary needs, you may prefer to bring your own items.
Will I sit in the same chair every visit?
Will I have the same nurse each time?
Our staff rotates, so you may have different nurses during your treatments. This helps you get to know multiple members of our team, all of whom are familiar with your care plan.
Can I request a specific nurse or chair?
What if I need to use the bathroom during my infusion?
Please let your nurse know. We’ll help you unplug your IV pole and, if needed, escort you to the restroom. The IV pump has a battery backup, so there’s no need to rush. When you return, we can help you plug your IV back in.
Do I need someone to drive me home?
Most patients can drive themselves after treatment. However, if you have a reaction or receive medications such as Benadryl that can cause drowsiness, you may need a ride. Your nurse will help assess your readiness to drive before you leave.
How long does chemotherapy stay in my body?
Can my partner or pet sleep in the same bed with me?
When can I resume sexual activity?
How do I know if I need more hydration?
Staying hydrated is important during treatment. Aim for 64 to 80 ounces of noncaffeinated fluids per day. Signs of dehydration include dryness of the mouth, eyes, nose, or skin. If you can’t drink enough fluids, your team may recommend IV hydration.
Why should I flush the toilet twice after chemotherapy, and for how long?
After chemotherapy, your body eliminates drug waste through bodily fluids. When those fluids leave your body, they can irritate skin or pose a small exposure risk to others.
These precautions are recommended for a few days after each treatment:
- If possible, have children use a different toilet.
- Always sit on the toilet to reduce splashing.
- Flush twice with the lid closed.
- Keep the lid down when not in use to prevent pets from drinking the water.
- Wash your hands well with warm, soapy water after each use.
- If you vomit, clean any splashes and flush twice. If you use a bucket, empty and wash it with hot, soapy water, then flush the rinse water twice.
- Caregivers should wear disposable gloves when handling body fluids and wash hands afterward.
If a caregiver’s skin comes into contact with body fluids, they should wash the area thoroughly and let your provider know at your next visit. - Wash any soiled clothes or linens separately in warm water with detergent. If you can’t wash them immediately, seal them in a plastic bag.
Dispose of adult diapers or sanitary pads in two sealed plastic bags before placing them in the trash.
Will my hair fall out?
Not all chemotherapy drugs cause hair loss. If your regimen includes one that may, hair typically begins to fall out two to four weeks after your first treatment.
