Infusion therapy plays a pivotal role in cancer care by delivering medication directly into a patient’s bloodstream, offering an efficient and often necessary means of treatment for various conditions.
What is Infusion Therapy?
Infusion therapy involves the administration of medication through a needle or catheter, often used when there is no option for medications. Medication is delivered directly into the bloodstream, allowing for immediate circulation throughout the body. Infusion therapy requires the use of medical equipment such as an intravenous (IV) line, which is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm or hand. Medication is then delivered through this line, either as a bolus (single injection) or as a continuous infusion over a set period or at intermittent intervals, depending on the prescribed treatment plan.
How Does Infusion Therapy Work?
Prior to infusion therapy, medication is prepared in a sterile environment to ensure safety and placed in an IV bag which is connected to an IV line inserted into the patient’s vein. The medication flows from the bag through the IV line and into the patient’s bloodstream. The medication can be infused using an infusion pump to ensure the medication is delivered at the correct pace and the rate of flow can be controlled and adjusted as needed.
Why is Infusion Therapy Used in Cancer Treatment?
Infusion therapy is used to deliver cancer treatment for several reasons:
- Controlled Delivery: Infusion therapy allows healthcare providers to control the dosage and rate of medication delivery, which can be crucial in managing the potency and side effects of cancer treatments.
- Patient Comfort: For patients who need frequent or long-term medication, infusion therapy can often be more comfortable and convenient than repeated injections.
In conclusion, infusion therapy is a critical aspect of cancer treatment, providing an effective and patient-friendly method of delivering life-saving medication. Patients should discuss their treatment plan, including the use of infusion therapy, with their healthcare provider to fully understand the process and its benefits.