What to Expect During Infusion Therapy

Your doctor may recommend infusion therapy if you need ongoing treatment for a condition such as cancer, an immune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS) or another chronic illness. Infusion therapy delivers medicine directly into your bloodstream through an IV or port, helping your body absorb it more effectively than pills. 

Where infusion therapy takes place 

Most infusion treatments are done on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home afterward.  

Depending on your needs, therapy may take place: 

• In a hospital or clinic: You’ll receive care in a calm, comfortable space designed for relaxation during treatment. 
• At home: For long-term therapies, a nurse will show you how to set up your infusion system safely and make sure you feel confident using it. 

Your care team will determine the best setting based on your diagnosis, medication and overall health. 

During your infusion 

If you’re receiving outpatient infusion therapy, our specially trained nurses will start your IV line, monitor your vital signs and ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process. Sessions can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your medication and dose. 

Many patients bring a book, music or a tablet to help pass the time. 

If your therapy happens at home, your nurse will teach you how to: 

• Set up and clean your equipment 
• Administer your infusion safely 
• Recognize possible side effects 
• Keep your hands, workspace and infusion site clean to prevent infection 

Your nurse and doctor will stay in touch throughout treatment to make sure you’re responding well. 

After your infusion 

When your infusion is complete, your nurse will remove your IV and check to make sure you feel well before you leave - or disconnect your equipment if at home. You’ll receive clear instructions on what to watch for, such as: 

• Mild side effects like fatigue or soreness 
• Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling or fever 

Your doctor may schedule follow-up visits or lab work to track your progress and adjust your therapy if needed. 

Coordinated care you can trust 

At Banner Health, infusion therapy is part of our comprehensive, team-based approach to care. Your nurses, pharmacists and physicians work closely together to coordinate every aspect of your treatment. Our goal is to help you manage your condition safely, minimize side effects and improve your quality of life. 

Why choose Banner Health for infusion therapy 

When you choose Banner Health, you’re choosing a partner in your ongoing health journey. We offer: 

• State-of-the-art infusion centers designed for comfort and safety 
• Home infusion services for long-term or chronic treatment needs 
• Specialized nurses trained in infusion and medication management 
• Seamless communication between your doctor and care team 

Whether you’re visiting one of our infusion centers or receiving care at home, you can count on Banner Health for expert, compassionate support every step of the way. 

Schedule your infusion therapy 

Find a Banner Health infusion center near you or talk to your doctor about starting treatment.