How to Prepare for Infusion Therapy

Starting infusion therapy can feel unfamiliar at first, especially if it is your initial experience with intravenous treatment. Many patients rely on these therapies to reduce inflammation, calm autoimmune activity, or manage chronic rheumatic conditions. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make your appointment more comfortable and help you feel more confident throughout the process. With the right guidance and support, infusion therapy becomes a manageable and often reassuring part of long-term care.

What Is Infusion Therapy?

Infusion therapy delivers medication directly into the bloodstream through an IV line placed in your arm. This method allows the body to absorb the treatment more effectively than oral medications in certain conditions. Infusions may be used to manage autoimmune diseases, inflammatory joint disorders, osteoporosis-related complications, and other rheumatologic concerns.¹

Infusion therapy is typically performed in a dedicated clinical suite where nurses and physicians monitor dosage, timing, and your response to treatment. Many patients appreciate the controlled environment and the opportunity to discuss questions during the appointment.

When Is Infusion Therapy Recommended?

Your physician may recommend infusion therapy when oral or injectable medications are not sufficient or when specific medications work best through intravenous delivery. Some infusions help slow disease progression, others reduce inflammation, and some strengthen bone structure.²

Infusion therapy may also be part of a broader plan that includes medication, lifestyle strategies, physical therapy, and follow-up imaging. When necessary, tools such as diagnostic ultrasound may be used during your care to help your physician monitor joint health, inflammation levels, and treatment response.

How to Prepare Before Your Infusion

Preparation helps the appointment go smoothly and reduces the chance of discomfort during the session. Many of these steps are simple but make a meaningful difference in your overall experience.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water before your visit can make it easier for nurses to place your IV and helps your body tolerate the infusion more comfortably. Hydration also reduces the risk of lightheadedness and fatigue.³

Eat a Balanced Meal

A light meal or snack before your appointment provides steady energy and helps prevent nausea. Many patients report that they feel better during infusions when they arrive having eaten earlier in the day.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Loose sleeves or short-sleeve shirts make IV placement easier. Comfortable layers help you stay warm if the infusion suite feels cool.

Bring Entertainment or Work Materials

Infusions may last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your medication. Many patients bring books, tablets, headphones, or quiet work to stay occupied.

Plan Transportation if Needed

Some medications can cause mild fatigue. If you feel uncertain about how you will respond, arranging transportation may ease worries and help you relax during the appointment.

Ask Questions

Instead of fearing the unknown, empower yourself with information. Write out a list of questions regarding your condition, the specific medication you’ll be receiving, the procedure itself — anything you’re curious about — and discuss them with your healthcare provider and/or infusion nurse specialists. Doing some preliminary research can largely eliminate any uncertainty you may have.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Infusion therapy takes place in a monitored clinic setting. Nurses begin by reviewing your vital signs, recent symptoms, and any reactions from previous treatments. Your IV is then placed, and the medication is administered at a pace determined by your treatment plan.⁴

Throughout the infusion, your care team monitors your comfort, blood pressure, and overall response. The environment is designed to be calm and supportive, often with comfortable seating and blankets available.

Most patients are able to return home shortly after the appointment and resume light activities for the rest of the day.

Practice Positivity

A positive attitude can be extremely empowering when you’re living with a health condition that causes you pain and makes daily life more challenging. When in doubt, it’s important to remember that treatment will help you heal, and the experts treating you have your best interests at heart. Relax, smile, and keep in mind that you’re on the right path!

At ARBDA, our staff is committed to our patients’ comfort and peace of mind. To get a clear idea of everything we have to offer patients at our six IDYLLIC Infusion Treatment Centers throughout South Jersey, take a look at this infographic.

Side Effects: What Is Normal?

Many patients tolerate infusion therapy well, although mild effects may appear during or shortly after treatment. These may include temporary fatigue, lightheadedness, mild headache, or warmth at the IV site.⁵

Your clinical team will review the specific medication being administered and explain any signs that should be reported immediately. Keeping track of how you feel after each visit helps your physician adjust future treatments if necessary.

How Often Will You Need Infusions?

The frequency of infusion therapy varies based on your diagnosis, medication, and treatment goals. Some medications are given monthly, while others are spaced further apart. Your physician will determine the schedule that best supports long-term stability.

Many patients find that once they settle into a routine, infusion therapy becomes predictable and significantly reduces symptoms.

How ARBDA Supports Patients Through Infusion Therapy

At Arthritis, Rheumatic & Bone Disease Associates (ARBDA), our infusion services are delivered in a comfortable and safe environment with experienced nurses and rheumatology providers nearby. Our goal is to help patients feel cared for, supported, and informed every step of the way.

Our rheumatologists in New Jersey monitor treatment response closely, adjust dosing when needed, and coordinate follow-up imaging or lab work to ensure that your therapy is providing the intended benefits. Your comfort and safety remain at the center of every visit.

Schedule an Appointment With ARBDA Today

If your physician has recommended infusion therapy or if you are beginning a new treatment plan, our team is here to guide you through the process. Infusion therapy can play an important role in reducing inflammation, improving symptoms, and supporting long-term health. With preparation and a supportive clinical environment, many patients find that the experience becomes a predictable and reassuring part of their care.

To begin, speak with your primary care doctor about arranging a referral to our practice. Once approved, you can complete our new patient contact form to schedule your first appointment and take the next step toward better symptom control and improved quality of life.