Home infusion therapy is often used when a patient needs IV medication administered outside of the hospital. To ensure that the process is completed correctly and safely, an experienced home health care provider can help you or your family members. If you are uncertain about whether home infusion therapy is right for you, keep reading to learn the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this particular type of treatment. 

Why Is Home Infusion Therapy Performed at Home? 

Inpatient care can be incredibly expensive. In the event that a patient is healthy enough to remain at home but still requires the administration of medication, home infusion therapy is a safe, cost-effective alternative. In many cases, patients, tend to recover faster at home, and even while they are receiving medication through this particular method, they will be able to continue their normal lifestyle. 

Is Home Infusion Therapy Safe? 

A doctor will not recommend a patient for home infusion services unless he or she is certain that it is appropriate. Medications for the infusion therapy will be provided by authorized pharmacy services, and the infusion itself will be overseen and administered by a nurse from a home health care service. In some instances, patients can learn how to perform the infusions themselves, but this is only in the event that the nurse is confident in the ability of the patient.  

What Diseases Can Be Treated with Home Infusion Therapy? 

Generally, the conditions that will warrant home infusion therapy are infections like pneumonia, sepsis, urinary tract infections, sinusitis, or osteomyelitis. There are other conditions that can also be treated with home infusion therapy, though, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, and Crohn's disease. 

What Kinds of Medications Are Used in Home Infusion Therapy? 

There are a variety of medications that can be infused at home, and some of these include antibiotics, pain medication, antifungal drugs, and chemotherapy drugs. In addition, a patient may receive intravenous hydration and nutrition via this particular treatment method. Any medications that are infused at the home will be properly stored, handled, and administered by home health care providers. In the event that the patient begins to handle their own infusions, he or she will be trained on how to store, handle, and administer his or her medications.  

If you are interested in learning more about home infusion therapy, reach out to an infusion service in your area or talk to your doctor.