Treatment Day
Before Treatment
- Do not consume solid food or milk products for 2-6 hours prior to receiving treatment (this will vary depending on the infusion)
- You may consume black coffee or clear liquids (any liquid you are able to see clearly through a glass) up to 2 hours prior to receiving treatment.
- Our team will advise you on which medications to take or stop prior to your infusion.
- Plan to have a driver accompany you to take you home after the infusion.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- If you have a favorite blanket or pillow, you may bring it with you to use.
- If you use a CPAP machine at home, bring it with you.
During Treatment
- You will be seated in a comfortable reclining lounge chair for the duration of the infusion.
- The lights in the room may be dimmed during the infusion.
- You may choose to wear headphones and play music during the infusion, or you can choose to wear ear plugs (we can also provide you with individually packed, sterile ear plugs to keep).
- Relax. You are under the care of highly skilled professionals who will be in constant attendance.
- An IV will be started by one of our nurses or doctors.
- We will obtain vital signs prior to beginning the infusion and monitor you throughout your treatment.
- We will inform you when the infusion begins. Most patients drift off to a pleasant sleep although some will remain awake.
- If you have any unpleasant images or feel uncomfortable at any time, inform the nurse who is in attendance or press the call button provided to you.
- When your infusion is completed, you will be reassured as you awaken.
- When you feel you’re ready, the IV will be taken out.
After Treatment
- We recommend that you use the bathroom prior to leaving the clinic.
- When you feel you’re ready, one of our nurses will walk you out to your car.
- It is normal to feel tired for the remainder of the day.
- Some patients will have double or blurred vision or dizziness for an hour or two after treatment.
- Do not drive or operate any kind of machinery at any time for 24 hours.
- Do not make any serious decisions (e.g. financial, personal, etc.) for 24 hours.
- Do not consume any alcohol for 24 hours.
- You may resume your normal medications as scheduled, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
- You may resume eating and drinking as you wish.
- It is unusual to have nausea on the evening of a treatment, but it can occur.
- If you experience any significant medical problems such as chest pain, significant shortness of breath, or hives, go to an Emergency Room.