What You Need to Know About IV Antibiotics and Intravenous Therapy
Millions of people are prescribed medications to treat a range of illnesses and ailments every day. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of the people in the United States have used at least one prescription medication in the last 30 days. Depending on the type of medication that is prescribed, the condition that is being treated and the duration of treatment, a doctor may prescribe intravenous therapy.
Intravenous therapy is a method of delivering medications, nutritional support and hydration into the body via an infusion. IV therapy is administered in a hospital or clinical setting where the patient is made to feel comfortable and encouraged to relax during treatment. Here is what you should know about intravenous therapy and what to expect if your doctor has prescribed or suggested it as a treatment option.
What Makes Intravenous Therapy an Effective Treatment?
IV therapy is used in the treatment of a variety of conditions. Most people are familiar with the use of IV therapy in delivering chemotherapy for the treatment of cancer. However, IV therapy is often used for the delivery of antibiotics to treat bacteria infections, such as for wound care, pneumonia, upper respiratory infections, and severe skin infections.
Intravenous therapy is often offered to patients with chronic health conditions, where the medications are administered directly into the veins where and are easily absorbed and metabolized by the body, often increasing their efficacy.
IV therapy is also a preferred treatment for individuals who might have difficulties tolerating medications given orally due to a sensitive digestive system or who have difficulty swallowing pills or liquids.
Intravenous therapy is also administered in a hospital or skilled nursing facility where qualified medical personnel are there to care for the patient, ensure that the proper amount of medication is administered at the correct rate, and to assist the patient should any side effects from the medication occur.
What To Expect During IV Antibiotic Treatment
In some cases, IV therapy is administered at home by a visiting health professional. While this is an option for some, your doctor is likely to prescribe IV antibiotic therapy that’s administered in a skilled nursing facility.
There are a couple of reasons that this is often the preference of physicians and patients alike. First, you arrive at the clinic and a basic intake is done. This helps to ensure that you’re receiving the treatment that your doctor prescribed and that it’s in your best interest. If any contraindications exist, the medical faculty at the nursing facility will contact your physician to determine the best treatment.
IV therapy clinics are also designed for your comfort. You will have a comfortable place to relax during your treatment and be provided with everything you need to reduce any side effects of the medication or treatment.
Most importantly, with IV antibiotic treatment at a skilled nursing facility, you benefit from the very best health care professionals by your side. These trained individuals can recognize when an issue arises and can assess how well the treatment is working for your condition. Plus, you receive the benefit of compassionate care that keeps your needs as the patient in mind at all times.
Contact Princeton Health Centers For IV Antibiotic Treatment
Has your doctor prescribed intravenous therapy for the administration of antibiotics? Princeton Health Care Center is here to provide the IV services you need in a professional, skilled and compassionate setting. Princeton Health Care Center is here to help you on the road to healing. Reach out to us today.