IVIG is administered intravenously as a plasma protein replacement therapy (IgG) for immune deficient patients (decreased or completely shut down antibody production capabilities). In these immune deficient patients, IVIG helps to maintain adequate antibodies levels to prevent infections, and confers passive immunity. Treatment is given every 3-4 weeks. In the case of patients with autoimmune disease, IVIG is administered at a higher dose to decrease the severity of the autoimmune disease.
RCH&P provides IVIG to patients with a wide range of disorders, including:

• Autoimmune Disorders  
• Primary Immune Deficiency    
• Transplant
• Acute Infection

Our pharmacists have access to a variety of IVIG products and are able to select the product that is best for each patient’s disease and co-morbidities. In conjunction with the patient’s physician, our pharmacists consider a patient’s renal, cardiac and pharmacokinetic parameters when selecting a product, to help minimize the chances of an adverse reaction.

Skilled infusion nurses stay with our patients for the entire IVIG infusion, monitoring the infusion rate and checking vital signs. Our unique protocols, combining hydration, pre-medication and a carefully controlled rate of infusion help reduce side effects and encourage patient compliance.

When the doctor orders home care therapy, the hospital/care facility discharge planner/case manager, in coordination with the patient/caregiver, works with River City HealthCare to assess the situation and arrange for delivery of equipment, medication, and/or formulas at appropriate intervals. 

Infusion and related therapies require medical equipment be brought into the home. Caregivers and patients must learn new skills to accommodate home based medical procedures and equipment.

Home infusion therapy involves a variety of electric/pole mounted or battery powered ambulatory pumps, as well as manually injected syringes and other means of administering substances. The patient is connected to an infusion device by means of tubing inserted directly into a vein or under the skin, depending on the therapy. Our clinicians work with patients, their caregivers, and physicians to “educate to independence,” providing as much mobility and self-sufficiency as possible.

How many hours daily are spent on treatment varies according to the prescribed therapy. For instance, patients receiving TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) may require therapy during sleep time only, or for 12 to 16 hours and up to 24-hour therapy. An anti-infective course of therapy might require a 30 minute to one hour infusion, two or three times a day, for one to six weeks. Other conditions may require a four-hour infusion once a month, or even once a year. The length of therapy varies by condition, ranging from a one-time infusion to a lifetime of treatment.