Starting infusion therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. At the CIBD Infusion Center, we understand that knowing what to expect can make a big difference in helping you feel more comfortable and confident on the day of your appointment.
Our Infusion Center is designed with patient safety, comfort, and personalized care at the forefront. Whether you’re receiving a one-time treatment or ongoing infusions, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process in a calm, supportive environment.
While this guide outlines what a typical infusion visit looks like, it’s important to note that visits vary depending on the medication being administered and your individual care needs. This overview is meant to help you arrive feeling prepared, informed, and supported.
Scheduling Your Infusion Appointment
Once your insurance authorization is approved, a member of our infusion team will contact you to schedule your visit. We typically schedule appointments about two to three weeks in advance.
If this is your first infusion, we’ll work with you to find a day and time that fits best with your schedule. Patients who receive ongoing infusions often return on the same day and time each week, though scheduling can occasionally change based on availability or individual needs. Our team will always keep you informed and help answer any questions along the way.
In addition to patients with inherited blood disorders, the CIBD Infusion Center now welcomes patients receiving infusions for conditions such as anemia, autoimmune disorders, and more. You can read more about our expanded infusion services here.
How Long Should Patients Plan to Be Here?
The amount of time you’ll spend at the infusion center depends on the medication you’re receiving and how it’s given. For example, Mast Cell infusions usually take about four to six hours, IVIG may take four to eight hours, biologics typically range from one to six hours, and iron infusions are generally one to three hours.
After your infusion, we’ll have you stay for about 30 minutes so our team can make sure you’re feeling well before you leave.
Knowing these timeframes ahead of your appointment can help you plan your day and feel more at ease about the visit.
What to Bring to Your Infusion Appointment
Being prepared can help make your infusion visit more comfortable and stress-free. Here are a few items to plan for ahead of your appointment:
Required items: A photo ID, insurance card, and a current list of medications and supplements. It is also recommended to bring a trusted friend or family member with you to keep you company during your visit and to drive you home afterward.
What to wear: Short sleeves are recommended to make IV placement easier, but patients can layer with a sweater or wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing once the IV is in place.
Comfort items you may want to bring: Extra layers or a personal blanket, and entertainment such as a book, crossword puzzles, laptop, tablet, and headphones.
To help make your visit as comfortable as possible, we also provide free Wi-Fi, TVs with streaming services (you may log into your own accounts), heated blankets and reclining chairs, a self-serve coffee and tea bar, snacks, and juices. If you’re unsure about what to bring or have questions about your specific infusion, please reach out before your appointment.
Checking In: What Happens When You Arrive
When you arrive for your infusion, you’ll check in at the CIBD lobby reception desk. During this time, our team will review your medications, explain the infusion process, conduct a baseline assessment, and discuss any concerns you may have.
During your visit, you may meet a variety of care team members, including infusion nurses, medical assistants, nurse practitioners, and a physician if needed.
For more information about our interdisciplinary care model, check out our comprehensive care blog post.
Getting Ready for Your Infusion
Once you’re checked in, a member of our team will bring you to the infusion area and help you get settled.
The CIBD Infusion Center is designed to be a comfortable, calm space where patients can relax while receiving care. We have both private and semi-private rooms with curtains, depending on availability and individual needs.
Before the infusion begins, a nurse will review the treatment plan with you and prepare everything needed for your medication. IV access is placed by the infusion team, which may include a nurse or nurse practitioner, and we take extra care to make this step as comfortable as possible.
Our team will take the time to answer any questions, explain what to expect, and ensure you’re feeling comfortable before the infusion starts. Whether you need a warm blanket, a chair adjustment, or a moment to relax, the infusion team is there to help.
During the Infusion: What to Expect
Most medications at our infusion center are given through an IV, though some may be administered as an injection. During your infusion, our team will check on you regularly, monitoring your vital signs and making sure you’re comfortable every step of the way.
It’s normal to notice some sensations during your infusion, such as feeling a bit tired, chilly, or bloated from the fluids. Any side effects specific to your medication will be explained by your nurse or provider on the day of your visit.
If you ever feel uncomfortable or notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to speak up. The infusion team can pause or adjust your treatment, and together you’ll decide the safest and most comfortable way to continue. Our priority is your safety and well-being.
After the Infusion: Finishing the Visit
Once your infusion is finished, you’ll stay for about 30 minutes so our team can make sure you’re feeling well and ready to go home. During this time, the IV is removed, and you’ll receive clear instructions for after-care.
These instructions explain the infusion you received, outline what’s normal to expect, and let you know which symptoms should prompt a call to the infusion team. You’ll also have the chance to ask any questions and confirm that you understand the guidance before you leave.
Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and supported as you head home.
Follow-Up Care & Next Steps
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled with your referring provider. If you notice any side effects or have concerns after your visit, don’t hesitate to reach out to our infusion team. We’re here to help. For patients who receive ongoing infusions, it’s important to stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, continue taking your prescribed medications at home, and follow any guidance from your referring provider, including labs or routine check-ins.
If you have questions about managing your condition, upcoming labs, or your home medications, your referring provider is the best person to contact. Together with our infusion team, they’ll help make sure your care is coordinated and smooth between visits.
Committed to Excellence
At CIBD, we’re committed to providing excellence in infusion care at every visit. Our goal is to create a comfortable, welcoming space where patients and families feel informed, supported, and cared for throughout their infusion experience.
If you have any questions before or after your appointment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our infusion team. We’re always happy to help and look forward to supporting you along the way.