Infusion Services
What you need to know for your appointment
Infusion services are provided at Desert Care Network’s Comprehensive Cancer Center in Palm Springs and at its office in La Quinta.
If infusion services are a part of your treatment plan, here’s what to expect:
While you receive your treatment, we strive to make your comfort a priority. We provide snacks and beverages throughout the day and a recliner for you to sit in while you are treated. You can bring your own meals if you'd like. Family can take turns visiting you during your infusion.
Before your appointment
The clothing you wear makes a difference in your comfort. Here are some tips about what to wear to your appointment.
- Dress in comfortable shoes and clothing
- Wear clothing that allows easy access to your arms for treatment and monitoring
- Wear clothing in layers so you can adjust to room temperatures
- Wear clothing suitable for sitting in a recliner for a long period of time.
We recommend that if this is your first infusion that you obtain a ride from your appointment. You may experience side effects from treatment that hinder your ability to drive.
What to expect during your appointment
The length of your treatment depends on the type of treatment you will receive. Infusions may take two hours or more. Some infusions take six to eight hours. You can ask how long each visit will take so you can plan accordingly.
At the beginning of your infusions, your nurse will assess your condition. Let your nurse know if you have any of the following:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Other discomforts
If your nurse clears you for your treatment, your nurse will call the pharmacy for your medication. The pharmacy will mix your infusion medication, which can be a long process due to the time needed to be careful and accurate.
Your nurse may give you medications to help counter some of the side effects of your therapy. Side effects of your treatment may include:
Blood infusions
Blood infusions are a two-day process. You must be “typed and crossed” at the Desert Regional Medical Center laboratory. What this means is that the laboratory will place a “blood band” on your wrist. Do not remove this band or your appointment will need to be rescheduled and you will need to have another “type and cross” performed. Prior to your visit, check with your physician about completing a “type and cross.”
