What to Expect During Your First In-Home Infusion

Key Points:

The first in-home infusion visit involves preparation, education, and support from trained professionals to ensure comfort and safety.
A nurse will set up the IV, administer medication, and guide you through aftercare and follow-up.
Being prepared with questions, a clean space, and emotional support can make the first experience smoother and more reassuring.

Starting something new—especially when it involves your health—can be daunting. If you’re about to receive your first in-home infusion, you might feel anxious, uncertain, or overwhelmed. That’s completely normal. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect during your first in-home infusion, step-by-step, so you can feel more confident and in control.

Understanding the Purpose of In-Home Infusion

Before diving into the experience itself, it’s helpful to understand why in-home infusion therapy is used and how it supports your treatment plan.

Why In-Home Infusion Might Be Recommended

In-home infusion therapy is often prescribed when a condition requires medication that must be delivered intravenously, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, hydration, or biologics, but doesn’t need to be administered in a hospital.

It allows you to receive care in a more comfortable and familiar environment, while reducing the risk of infection and avoiding long hospital stays.

Conditions Commonly Treated at Home

In-home infusions are used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

Chronic infections requiring IV antibiotics
Autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s or rheumatoid arthritis
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy or immunotherapy
Immune deficiencies needing IVIG (immunoglobulin)
Dehydration or malnutrition treated with IV hydration or nutrition

If your doctor has prescribed an in-home infusion, they’ve determined it’s a safe and appropriate method of delivering your treatment.

Preparing for Your First In-Home Infusion

A successful first experience begins with preparation—both emotionally and physically. Here’s how to get ready and set yourself up for a smooth start.

What to Expect Before the Visit

Before your scheduled infusion, your care team will typically contact you to confirm your appointment and deliver supplies. You may receive:

Medications (prepared and stored properly)
Infusion pump and IV supplies
Instructions for preparing a clean space in your home
A call from your nurse or coordinator to review the plan

Ask any questions you may have in advance—it’s perfectly okay to want clarity on every step.

Setting Up a Clean and Comfortable Space

Choose a spot in your home where you can sit or lie down comfortably for an extended period. It should be:

Clean and free of clutter
Well-lit
Near an outlet if a powered pump is used
Quiet and relaxing—consider a book, headphones, or a movie

Have a small table nearby to place supplies that the nurse will use during the infusion.

Meeting Your Infusion Nurse

Your nurse is there not only to administer medication but to guide and support you through the process. Let’s walk through what that first visit typically looks like.

Arrival and Introduction

When your nurse arrives, they’ll introduce themselves and explain the steps of the infusion. Expect them to:

Review your health history and medications
Take your vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, heart rate)
Go over the medication you’ll receive
Answer any final questions before getting started

This is a great time to speak up about any concerns or past experiences with infusions, so they can tailor the care to your needs.

Setting Up and Administering the Infusion

Once everything is confirmed, the nurse will:

Prepare the IV site—usually a vein in your arm or a central line if you have one.
Set up the IV tubing and connect the medication.
Program the infusion pump or manually regulate the flow.
Monitor you closely during the infusion for side effects or discomfort.

Infusion times can vary—from 30 minutes to several hours—depending on the medication and treatment plan.

During the Infusion: What You’ll Feel and Experience

It’s completely normal to wonder how you’ll feel during the actual infusion. Here’s what most patients report and what you can expect.

Physical Sensations

You may feel a cool sensation at the IV site when the medication starts to flow. Other common sensations can include:

Mild pressure or tightness around the IV
Fatigue as your body adjusts
Taste or smell changes (common with certain medications)

Your nurse will stay nearby to observe and address any unusual symptoms.

Emotional Reactions

It’s not just a physical experience—receiving an infusion for the first time can bring up emotions like anxiety, relief, or even frustration. That’s okay. Give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up, and talk to your nurse if you’re feeling uneasy.

After the Infusion: What Happens Next

Once your infusion is complete, your nurse will ensure you’re stable, explain aftercare, and prepare you for future treatments.

Post-Infusion Monitoring

Before leaving, the nurse will:

Flush and remove the IV line (if not a permanent catheter)
Re-check your vitals
Ask how you’re feeling and address any symptoms
Provide written instructions for aftercare

You’ll also get contact information in case you have concerns between appointments.

What You Might Feel Afterward

Some people feel tired after their infusion, while others feel normal right away. Mild side effects may include:

Soreness at the IV site
Headache
Low energy for the rest of the day

Make sure to drink water, eat something light if you can, and rest as needed.

Tips to Make Future Infusions Easier

Your first in-home infusion is just the beginning. Here are a few ways to make the experience smoother over time.

1. Keep a Journal

Write down how you feel before, during, and after each infusion. This can help you and your care team fine-tune your treatment plan.

2. Plan for Comfort

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your IV site. Have snacks, water, and entertainment ready ahead of time.

3. Invite Support

Having a friend, partner, or family member nearby can help ease nerves. Even if they don’t stay the whole time, a familiar face can be comforting.

4. Ask Questions—Every Time

Each session is a chance to learn more about your body and your care. If something doesn’t feel right, or if you’re unsure, speak up.

Get Compassionate In-Home Infusion Therapy with Revival in New York

If you or someone you care for is starting infusion treatment, you’re not alone. Revival provides trusted, home health services in New York, designed to bring comfort, safety, and expert care right to your door. Our skilled nurses handle each step with attention and empathy, so you can focus on healing at home. Reach out today to learn how Revival can support your journey.