Troubleshooting for Those Taking Medicine by IV Infusion

People take medications in many forms: pills, liquids, ointments, and injections. They can also take them by “infusion,” which means that the medications are given directly into a vein through an intravenous line (IV). Extra fluids and nutrition can also be delivered by this method. IV infusion may be given to people with cancer, congestive heart failure, severe infections or other conditions when oral medication (by mouth) is not fully effective. This video covers an important aspect of home infusion: troubleshooting when problems arise. The video covers four main areas: • How to care for a PICC infusion site (commonly used for home infusions) • How to care for the infusion device or pump • How to safely store, use, and dispose of the medicines and supplies • When to contact a health care provider.