What to expect at your first infusion at Palmetto Infusion/AccuRX

If you have an autoimmune or acute condition and oral medications aren’t providing enough relief, your doctor may recommend a unique type of medication that is administered intravenously, called a biologic.

We know starting any type of new medication can be unnerving, especially an IV medication.

Palmetto Infusion is here to help and answer any questions you may have about the process.

From the moment you step into one of our 40 clinics across the southeast, you will be met with attentive, friendly, and comforting service. Our number one goal is to make sure you are comfortable and well taken care of.

We’re happy to walk you through what to expect:

What do I need to do prior to my infusion service?

If you are receiving infusion therapy, that means our nurses will need to access your veins to begin an IV drip of your medication. While we have some of the most experienced and skilled nurses in the field, many of whom come to us from working years at a hospital, there are actions you can take to ensure your veins are more easily accessible.

Starting 48 hours before your infusion, make sure you are well-hydrated and drinking plenty of water. Health experts recommend drinking at least half a gallon of water per day.

Is there anything I need to bring with me to my appointment?

You should bring your ID and insurance cards to each appointment. Depending on how long your infusion is, some patients enjoy bringing their own blankets and snacks, however, we are happy to provide both of those items for you.

Additionally, you can also bring your cell phone (if you use that to pass the time), your cell phone charger, a book, a laptop, or other entertainment of your choice. Each of our clinics has WiFi and television entertainment.

Once I check in, what happens next?

You may have a short wait inside our lobby before your nurse comes to get you for your infusion. Depending on how many patients we have that time and day, you may be asked if you would like a private room for your infusion or to be in the main room with other patients.

If you would like a private room moving forward, please let our staff know and we will note that in your file.

What happens prior to starting my medication?

Once you are settled in one of our soft and comfortable recliners, a nurse and a doctor or family nurse practitioner will come over to ask you a few questions regarding any recent infections or surgical procedures, current pain levels, medications you’re on, and symptoms you are experiencing. This will be noted in your file in the instance your doctor would like an update on your progress.

Please note that if you have had any recent infections or surgical procedures or have taken an antibiotic two weeks prior to your infusion date, please call 800.809.1265 to let our staff know. You may need your infusion rescheduled, if so.

The nurse will then take your temperature and check your blood pressure, as well as give you any pre-medication your doctor has prescribed. Many patients take over-the-counter anti-fever medicine and allergy medicine, such as Benadryl or Allegra.

Then the nurse will access your vein using a relatively small needle. They’ll ensure they have correctly placed the IV by checking for blood return and doing a saline flush.

How long after this before I start my infusion?

Typically, patients will wait about 30 minutes from the time the IV is placed to the time the infusion starts. This allows any pre-medication time to get into your system, as well as our nurses to prepare your infusion medication.  Some medications are supplied in powder form and must be diluted immediately prior to infusing.

How long should I expect to be in your clinic?

Depending on the medication you are receiving, you can be out in as little as an hour, or it may be several hours. Palmetto Infusion staff will be able to let you know at the time your appointment is made how long your infusion will take.

We understand the unknown of infusion days can be scary and full of anxiety, but we hope with this information, you find yourself more prepared and less nervous for your upcoming appointment.

Each of our cutting-edge infusion centers includes comforting features, such as warm private rooms, soft chairs, clean blankets, WiFi access, snacks, and television entertainment so you feel like family in our care. Our nurturing and specialized team understands that home-like elements alleviate stress and ease fears, resulting in optimal therapy outcomes.

We hope you find comfort in your home away from home and thank you for trusting us for your infusion needs.