Embarking on your first infusion treatment can naturally bring about feelings of uncertainty. If your doctor has recommended infusion therapy, rest assured that Twelve Stone Health Partners is dedicated to ensuring your experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible. We understand that navigating your initial infusion can feel overwhelming, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you are receiving your infusion treatments in the comfort of your home or at one of our welcoming centers, these helpful tips are designed to prepare you for what to expect. While your physician has likely discussed the basics of infusion therapy with you, let’s revisit some key reminders to help you feel more confident and informed.
Pre-Treatment Preparation: Gathering Essential Information
Avoid last-minute stress by proactively gathering all necessary documents well in advance of your appointment. Compile everything you will need into a designated folder or notebook. This simple step will prevent any frantic searches for paperwork just before your treatment. Essential documents typically include:
- Your insurance card and a valid form of identification.
- A comprehensive medical history, including a list of all current medications you are taking.
- Any forms specifically required by the infusion center. It is highly probable that Twelve Stone Health Partners will have essential forms available on our website for you to complete prior to your visit. (For those visiting our centers, you can conveniently find these forms online, usually located in the upper right corner of our website. Please ensure you complete the forms relevant to your specific infusion medication type.) If you are unable to locate the forms online, do not hesitate to contact us directly to request them. Completing these forms beforehand is particularly beneficial if you are feeling anxious about your first treatment, allowing you to address administrative tasks at your own pace and in a relaxed environment.
Planning Your Transportation to Twelve Stone Health Partners
For your initial visit to a Twelve Stone Health Partners infusion center, we strongly advise arranging transportation in advance. This precaution is recommended because some patients may experience temporary side effects such as weakness, drowsiness, or dizziness following their infusion. Until you are familiar with how your body responds to the treatment, it is wise to have a reliable way to get home without driving yourself. It’s also worth noting that many insurance plans may cover the cost of ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for medical appointments. We encourage you to check your insurance plan details to explore this convenient option.
Personal Comfort Items to Enhance Your Infusion Experience
At Twelve Stone Health Partners, your comfort is a top priority. We strive to create a relaxing and supportive environment at our infusion centers, offering amenities such as comfortable reclining chairs, cozy pillows and blankets, televisions, and complimentary WiFi. We also provide a selection of beverages to help you stay hydrated throughout your treatment session. However, we also understand the value of personal comfort items. If bringing a familiar item such as a comforting stuffed animal, your Bible or favorite book, calming music, or a crossword puzzle will help you feel more at ease, please feel free to bring it along. These personal touches can make a significant difference in enhancing your overall comfort and relaxation during your infusion.
What to Expect on Your Treatment Day
Your physician may provide you with specific pre-infusion instructions tailored to your individual needs. These instructions could include guidance on medications to take beforehand, dietary recommendations, or the need for pre-infusion blood work. It is crucial to carefully follow any directions provided by your healthcare provider. Furthermore, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of staying well-hydrated in the days and hours leading up to your infusion. Drinking plenty of non-caffeinated fluids will help to “plump” your veins, which can make the needle insertion process more comfortable. And of course, dressing in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing will contribute to your overall ease during your treatment.
Navigating Your Treatment Session
Upon arrival at Twelve Stone Health Partners, you will first submit your completed paperwork. Depending on your treatment plan, you may have some blood work done before settling into a comfortable infusion chair. Throughout your treatment, please do not hesitate to ask any questions that arise. Our experienced clinicians are here to address all of your concerns and welcome your inquiries. Open communication is key to ensuring a positive and smooth experience. Similarly, if anything feels amiss or causes you discomfort during the infusion, please speak up immediately. Your feedback allows us to promptly address any issues and ensure your well-being.
Post-Infusion Care and What Comes Next
Congratulations, you have completed your first infusion! Before you leave, take a moment to ensure you are feeling steady and balanced. This is also a good time to ask any remaining follow-up questions you may have. It is likely that a member of your healthcare team from Twelve Stone Health Partners will reach out to you after your first infusion to check on your progress and address any immediate concerns.
Looking Ahead to Future Infusion Appointments
With your first infusion successfully completed, you now have a clearer understanding of what to anticipate for future visits. You can use this experience to tailor your subsequent appointments to your preferences. Perhaps you feel confident enough to drive yourself home next time. You might decide to bring your laptop to catch up on work during your treatment, or maybe you would appreciate having a friend or family member accompany you for support. Regardless of your choices, at Twelve Stone Health Partners, our primary goal is to ensure you have the most positive and comfortable experience possible every time you entrust us with your care. We are your partners in health, committed to providing exceptional infusion services.
