Infusion
Nursing Notes
By Nufactor

Infusion Nursing Notes by Nufactor provides education, resources and support to promote successful patient therapy within the infusion nursing community.

Infliximab, Biologics: Infusion Precautions

Biologics products have been developed to treat undesirable immune responses caused by chronic systemic inflammatory conditions. The immune system consists of a vast network of cells, tissues and organs that all perform specific functions to help keep the “host” in a state of equilibrium. Infliximab is a monoclonal antibody tumor necrosis factor α (TNF) inhibitor. That has been used to slow the progression of several inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis by blocking the activation of TNF, target specific therapy. [More]

Administration, Common Side Effects and Dosing of INFLIXIMAB (REMICADE®)

By Candy Finley, RN, IgCN.

Infliximab is an intravenously administered genetically engineered monoclonal antibody that neutralizes inflammation caused by a protein called tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) by binding to the soluble and transmembrane forms of TNFα with its receptors. Elevated concentrations of TNFα have been found in the tissues and fluids of patients with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved diagnoses. Infliximab controls the activity of several inflammatory chemicals. It is FDA-approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Once established on treatment, symptoms should start to improve over a period of two to twelve weeks. [More]

Home Infusion of Immune Globulin: Navigating the Challenges

By Jean McCaslin, RN, IgCN.

Home health care continues to be the fastest growing segment of the health care industry. Many patients prefer the convenience and comfort of receiving care in the home. While the infusion of immune globulin (IG) requires specialty knowledge and precaution, the home infusion environment itself requires thoughtful consideration and accommodation. [More]