Home Infusion Therapy

Home infusion therapy is the administration of medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into a patient’s vein through an intravenous (IV) line, in the comfort and convenience of their home.

This type of therapy is often used for patients who require long-term or frequent treatments and can be a cost-effective alternative to inpatient hospital care.

Home infusion therapy is administered by a healthcare professional, such as a nurse, or by the patient themselves under the guidance and supervision of their healthcare team.

Some common conditions that may require home infusion therapy include:

1. 1. Infections: Patients with bacterial or fungal infections that do not respond to oral antibiotics may require intravenous antibiotics.
   2. Chemotherapy: Some cancer patients may receive chemotherapy treatments at home to reduce the need for hospital visits.
   3. Nutrition support: Patients who are unable to take food orally or through a feeding tube may require parenteral nutrition, which provides nutrients directly into their bloodstream.
   4. Immunoglobulin therapy: Patients with immune deficiencies or autoimmune diseases may require regular infusions of immunoglobulins.
   5. Pain management: Patients with severe pain due to chronic conditions, such as cancer or nerve damage, may receive pain medication through home infusion therapy.
   6. Hydration: Patients who need additional fluids or electrolytes may receive hydration therapy at home.

Home infusion therapy requires a team effort consisting of healthcare professionals, i.e. physicians, pharmacists, and nurses, to ensure the safe and effective delivery of treatment.

The process generally involves the following steps:

1. 1. Assessment: The healthcare team assesses the patient’s medical condition and determines if home infusion therapy is an appropriate treatment option.
   2. Prescription: The physician writes a prescription for the necessary medication, fluids, or nutrients.
   3. Preparation: A specialized pharmacist prepares the infusion medication or solution in a sterile environment.
   4. Delivery: The prepared infusion is delivered to the patient’s home, along with any necessary supplies and equipment.
   5. Administration: A Kariah healthcare professional such as a nurse administers the infusion following the prescribed schedule and dosage.
   6. Monitoring: The Kariah healthcare team monitors the patient’s progress and adjusts the treatment

Benefits of Home infusion therapy include increased comfort, convenience, and lower costs compared to inpatient hospital care.