Who Is a Good Candidate for IV Therapy?

IV therapy is a crucial medical procedure that involves the infusion of fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into a patient’s vein. This method is particularly effective when other methods of administration, such as oral or subcutaneous, are not feasible or effective.

Our team of experienced healthcare professionals can administer IV therapy to a wide range of patients based on their unique health needs and conditions. These may include:

• Dehydrated or malnourished individuals: Our team is skilled in administering IV therapy to replenish fluid levels and deliver essential nutrients to patients who have lost significant amounts of fluids due to vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating, or those who are unable to eat or absorb nutrients adequately due to illness or a medical procedure.

• Patients requiring immediate medication administration: For patients with severe infections that cannot be managed with oral medications, we can administer pain medications, antibiotics, or chemotherapy drugs directly into the bloodstream using IV therapy.

• Patients undergoing surgical procedures: We are equipped to administer intravenously anesthesia and use IV lines to deliver fluids and medications as needed during surgery.

• Patients with chronic conditions: We offer ongoing IV therapy for individuals with conditions like kidney failure, diabetes, or heart failure to manage their symptoms and prevent complications.

• Patients requiring blood transfusions or dialysis treatments: At Sunset Hills Family Practice, we use IV therapy to deliver donated blood directly into the patient’s bloodstream during blood transfusions.

Our qualified healthcare professionals make the decision to use IV therapy based on the patient’s individual condition and symptoms. At Sunset Hills Family Practice, we are committed to providing rapid, direct treatment to those who need it most, ensuring the overall health and well-being of our patients.

At Sunset Hills Family Practice, we understand the importance and versatility of intravenous (IV) therapy in the treatment of a wide range of health conditions. Whether it’s treating dehydration from severe gastroenteritis or administering antibiotics for an infection, IV therapy plays a critical role in delivering rapid and effective treatment.

Our trained staff are skilled in the use of IV therapy for various applications, including post-surgical pain management and the treatment of nutrient deficiencies. In cases where patients cannot absorb nutrients from food due to malnutrition, malabsorption, or gastrointestinal disorders, we can deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes directly into the bloodstream through IV therapy.

We also understand the role of IV therapy in managing chronic diseases like cancer and autoimmune diseases. Our team is equipped to deliver chemotherapy drugs via IV, which is often more effective than oral medication. Similarly, we can use IV therapy to administer high-dose corticosteroids and other medications for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, helping to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression.

We also utilize IV therapy in the management of heart diseases, delivering medication to control irregular heart rhythms or provide relief from congestive heart failure. For patients with blood loss, anemia, or certain medical conditions, our clinic uses IV therapy as the primary route for administering blood transfusions.

At Sunset Hills Family Practice, we aim to provide comprehensive healthcare to all our patients. The use of IV therapy is just one of the many ways we achieve this. We encourage consultation with our healthcare professionals to determine if IV therapy is the appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

If you’re scheduled for an IV therapy session at our facility, it’s vital to prepare yourself adequately to ensure a successful and smooth treatment. Here are some important steps to follow:

Before the Appointment:

• Inform our team: Disclose your allergies, current medications, medical conditions, and any recent hospitalizations to our healthcare providers. It’s also beneficial to bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking, as well as any allergies you have.
• Fasting and meal planning: Follow the instructions provided by our healthcare providers regarding fasting before the session. Typically, you may need to abstain from food and beverages for several hours. However, unless instructed otherwise, eat a healthy meal before your session. IV therapy can sometimes cause light-headedness or nausea, so having food in your stomach can help mitigate these effects.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids in the days leading up to your appointment. This helps to make your veins more accessible, making the IV insertion easier. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary beverages, as they may have a dehydrating effect.
• Comfortable clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the vein for IV insertion. This will make the process easier for our nurse or technician who will be placing the IV.
• Identification: Bring your identification card, insurance information, and any other relevant medical history.
Rest and relaxation: Get plenty of rest the night before your therapy session. This can help reduce your anxiety levels and improve your overall experience. Feel free to discuss any concerns or questions you have with our healthcare providers.

During the Appointment:

• Arrival: Check in with our healthcare professional and provide any necessary information.
• IV insertion: One of our trained healthcare professionals will insert the IV into a suitable vein, typically in your arm or hand.
• Position: You can recline comfortably on the exam table or chair during the infusion.
• Monitoring: We’ll monitor your vital signs regularly throughout the session.
• Dietary modifications: If fasting is required, you will be instructed to continue fasting until the infusion is complete.

After the Appointment:

• Removal: We will remove the IV once the infusion is completed. A small bandage or pressure may be applied to the insertion site.
• Activity: Resume normal activities gradually. Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for the next few hours.
• Hydration: Continue drinking plenty of fluids to help flush the infused medications or fluids from your body.
• Follow-up: If necessary, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress or adjust the treatment plan.

 
If you suffer from a chronic illness such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, cancer, or ulcerative colitis, your body may struggle to absorb nutrients correctly. In such cases, IV therapy could be a viable treatment option, bypassing your digestive system and delivering the necessary nutrients directly into your bloodstream.

Your lifestyle can also dictate if you’re a suitable candidate for IV therapy. For those leading a fast-paced life marked by high stress, poor nutrition, or frequent travel, IV therapy can rapidly replenish your nutrient levels and boost your immune system. Athletes looking to boost performance and recovery might also find IV therapy beneficial, as it can provide quick hydration and replace lost nutrients after intense training sessions.

Even if you’re generally healthy but struggle with frequent migraines, fatigue, or hangovers, IV therapy might be an effective solution. Individuals with certain medical conditions like severe heart failure, uncontrolled hypotension, advanced kidney disease, pulmonary edema, or active bleeding disorders should not undergo IV therapy.

IV therapy can be an effective treatment for various conditions, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, severe infections, and nutritional deficiencies. If you’re experiencing symptoms that may indicate a need for IV fluids or medications, we encourage you to consult with our healthcare professionals promptly. They can assess your eligibility, determine if IV therapy is right for you, and provide the necessary treatment. Always consult with one of our healthcare professionals before starting any new treatment. Here at Sunset Hills Family Practice, we are committed to providing you with the best care possible. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2510 Wigwam Parkway, Suite 102, Henderson, NV 89074. We serve patients from Henderson NV, Paradise Hills NV, Midway NV, Gibson Springs NV, Winchester NV, and surrounding areas.