IV infusion visit ยท what to expect
What to Expect at Your IV Infusion
At your IV infusion you check in, a nurse places the IV and takes your vital signs, the infusion runs while you sit in a recliner, and you go home after a short watch period. Most infusions take under an hour; some biologics and ketamine take several hours.
How long do IV infusions usually take?
- IV hydration: about 30 to 60 minutes.
- IV antibiotics: usually 30 to 60 minutes per dose.
- Biologics: about one to several hours, longer for a first dose.
- Ketamine: several hours, including recovery.
Add time for check-in and observation. We give you the expected time when we schedule.
What to bring
- Photo ID and insurance card.
- A list of your medications and allergies.
- A top with sleeves that push up, and a layer: infusion rooms run cool and IV fluid feels cold.
- Something to read or watch, with headphones.
- A driver, if you are having ketamine or a premedication that causes drowsiness.
Can you eat and drink before an infusion?
For most infusions, yes: eat normally and drink water, which also makes the vein easier to find. If your infusion needs anything different, we tell you when we schedule.
Can you go to the bathroom during an infusion?
Yes. The bag hangs on a rolling pole that goes with you, or the nurse pauses the pump for a few minutes.
Can I drive home after an infusion?
After most infusions, yes. After ketamine, no. Some premedications, such as antihistamines, cause drowsiness; if yours does, bring a driver.
What not to do after an IV infusion?
- Keep the IV site clean and dry for a few hours, and skip heavy lifting with that arm for the rest of the day.
- After ketamine: no driving, no big decisions, and no alcohol for the rest of the day.
- After a biologic: no live vaccines unless your rheumatologist clears them.
- Call us about redness, swelling or pain at the IV site, a new fever, or a rash.
This is a scheduled outpatient infusion service, not an emergency department. Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, a rapidly spreading infection with fever and confusion, or swelling of the lips or throat: call 911.
Questions patients ask
Does an IV infusion hurt?
The needle stings for a second while the IV goes in, then the small plastic tube stays and the needle comes out. Most people feel nothing during the infusion beyond a cool arm. See IV hydration.
Can someone come with me?
Yes, one adult companion is welcome, and for ketamine a driver is required. See ketamine infusion.
What if I feel unwell during the infusion?
Tell the nurse right away. Slowing or pausing the drip handles most reactions, and staff watch you throughout. More on infusion reactions.