What to Expect During an In-Home IVIG Infusion Visit: A Patient’s Guide

What to Expect During an In-Home IVIG Infusion Visit: A Patient’s Guide

If your doctor has prescribed IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) therapy, you may be offered the option of receiving your treatment at home rather than in a hospital or infusion center. This can make the process more comfortable, convenient, and less disruptive to daily life. Still, it’s natural to wonder what the experience will be like. Here’s a step-by-step look at what happens during an in-home IVIG infusion visit from the patient’s perspective.

1. Preparing for the Visit

Before your scheduled infusion, you’ll receive instructions from your healthcare team. These often include:

• Staying hydrated the day before and the day of your infusion.

• Having a light meal before treatment to help minimize side effects.

• Preparing a comfortable space (like a recliner, couch, or bed) where you’ll remain during the infusion.

• Gathering entertainment (books, shows, music) since infusions can last several hours.

2. Nurse Arrival and Setup

A trained infusion nurse will come to your home at the scheduled time. When they arrive, they will:

• Review your medical history, allergies, and any recent changes in your health.

• Take your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and oxygen levels) to ensure it’s safe to begin.

• Set up sterile equipment, IV tubing, and your IVIG medication, which may need to be prepared on-site.

The nurse will explain each step so you know exactly what’s happening.

3. IV Placement

The nurse will insert an IV line, usually in your arm or hand, to deliver the IVIG medication. If you already have a port or central line, they will access it instead. This part can feel like a small pinch, but it’s typically quick and well-tolerated.

4. Starting the Infusion

The IVIG medication is given slowly through the IV line. The nurse will:

• Begin the infusion at a low rate and gradually increase the speed to your tolerance.

• Monitor your vital signs frequently, especially at the start.

• Watch for any side effects such as headache, chills, or flushing. If they occur, the nurse can adjust the rate or give medications to ease symptoms.

You can relax, read, watch TV, or nap during this time. Infusions can take 2–6 hours, depending on your prescription and how your body responds.

5. During the Infusion

While the infusion runs, you’ll be encouraged to:

• Drink fluids to help prevent headaches.

• Tell your nurse right away if you feel unwell or notice any unusual symptoms.

• Rest and make yourself as comfortable as possible.

Your nurse is there to keep you safe and ensure you feel supported throughout.

6. After the Infusion

Once the medication is complete:

• The nurse will flush the IV line and then remove it (unless you have a permanent port).

• Your vital signs will be checked again.

• The nurse will review any possible delayed side effects with you (such as fatigue, headache, or mild flu-like symptoms) and give you instructions on when to call your doctor.

You may feel a little tired afterward, so it’s often best to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.

7. Follow-Up

Your healthcare team will schedule your next infusion and check in about how you’re tolerating treatment. Keeping a symptom diary can be very helpful to share with your doctor and infusion nurse at future visits.

Final Thoughts

Receiving IVIG therapy at home allows you to get the treatment you need in a familiar, comfortable environment while being closely monitored by a skilled nurse. With preparation, open communication, and self-care, the process becomes routine over time. Most importantly, you’ll always have support from your healthcare team to ensure your treatment is safe, effective, and as stress-free as possible.