Starting a new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis can come with a mix of hope and uncertainty. If you've been prescribed infusion therapy, you may be wondering what the experience is like and how to prepare for your first session.
At Smart Infusion Therapy Services, we specialise in providing high-quality, patient-centred infusion care in Eau Claire, WI. Our expert team works with your healthcare provider to ensure your rheumatoid arthritis infusion treatment is both safe and effective, with comfort and clarity every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today.
Here’s what to expect before, during, and after your RA infusion sessions—so you can approach treatment with greater ease and confidence.
Pre-Infusion Preparation
Before beginning your RA infusion therapy, you’ll have a consultation with your referring doctor or healthcare professional to review your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals. During this consultation, you’ll receive detailed information about the type of biologic therapy prescribed to you, such as medications that target TNF inhibitors or immune cells involved in inflammation.
To help your infusion sessions go smoothly, you should:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours before your appointment, making it easier for nurses to find a suitable vein for the IV.
- Eat a Light Meal: Have a nutritious but not overly heavy meal before your session to prevent discomfort.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing and layers to help regulate body temperature.
- Bring Comfort Items: Many patients bring books, tablets, headphones, or blankets to help them relax during treatment.
Your infusion nurse will also verify your health status and ensure you're well enough to proceed, addressing any concerns or questions you may have.
The Infusion Process and Duration
Upon arrival at Smart Infusion, our welcoming team will guide you to a comfortable chair in a private or semi-private room within our infusion center. Your nurse will carefully insert a small IV needle into a vein, usually in your arm or hand, to administer your prescribed medication directly into your bloodstream.
RA infusion therapy sessions typically last from one to several hours, depending on your specific medication and dosage. During this time, your nurse will closely monitor you to ensure you’re comfortable and free of adverse reactions. You’re encouraged to relax, read, rest, or enjoy other quiet activities during your session.
Because infusion medications bypass the digestive system, they can offer more effective relief from severe rheumatoid arthritis symptoms than oral medications, significantly reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation while helping protect your joints from further damage.
Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Most RA patients tolerate infusion therapy very well, but as with any medical treatment, some side effects can occur. Common side effects are typically mild and include:
- Fatigue: You might feel tired after treatment; planning time for rest can help you recover.
- Headache or Mild Dizziness: Staying well-hydrated and lying back comfortably during infusion can minimize these effects.
Serious allergic reactions to infusion medications are uncommon, but our trained nurses closely monitor you throughout the infusion process. They are equipped to immediately address any rare issues like rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling. Notify your healthcare professional promptly if you experience unusual symptoms at any point during or after treatment.
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up
After your infusion session, you’ll stay briefly at our facility for monitoring, ensuring you feel well enough to safely head home. Your nurse or doctor will provide clear aftercare instructions, which typically include:
- Drinking extra fluids to support hydration and medication absorption.
- Avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.
- Monitor for delayed side effects such as fever, joint pain, or increased swelling, and contact your doctor if these occur.
Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up infusion sessions based on your personalized treatment plan. Regularly scheduled treatments are crucial for maintaining optimal disease management, slowing RA progression, and maximizing your quality of life.
How Smart Infusion Therapy Services Can Help
Smart Infusion Therapy Services in Eau Claire, WI, specializes in infusion therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. We are dedicated to providing a comfortable, personalized environment designed around your needs. Our highly trained nurses and staff offer:
- Individualized care and support: Treatment tailored specifically to your health profile and RA symptoms.
- Comfortable, relaxing infusion rooms: Ensuring every session is as pleasant as possible.
- Expert administration: Skilled infusion specialists carefully administer biologic therapies to reduce inflammation and manage RA symptoms.
- Continuous monitoring: Immediate attention to any reactions or side effects, ensuring your safety and comfort.
- Patient education and follow-up: Empowering you to confidently manage your RA treatment between infusion sessions.
Smart Infusion provides compassionate, expert infusion therapy to improve your overall health and daily life with RA.
Get the RA Infusion Care You Deserve
Infusion therapy can help manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, reduce joint pain, and support your quality of life. At Smart Infusion in Eau Claire, our team is ready to provide the professional care you need, every step of the way.
Book your next rheumatoid arthritis infusion appointment with Smart Infusion today. We’ll help make each treatment as comfortable and effective as possible.
