Pediatric Infusion: 5 Key Facts to Know
Infusion therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment journey of many patients, especially children who need ongoing medical care. For our youngest patients and their parents, navigating this terrain can be overwhelming.
At LUX Infusion, we recognize these challenges and have implemented a team well-versed in providing helpful resources to the families of pediatric infusion patients, so they feel comfortable and confident in their children’s infusion care.
With that in mind, we have compiled a list of the top five considerations that parents should take into account for successful pediatric infusion therapy at infusion centers (rather than in a hospital setting).
5 Factors for Parents to Consider with Pediatric Infusion Therapy
Pediatric infusion therapy can be not only safe and effective but also a positive experience for children of all ages when parents evaluate the following factors as they’re looking for an ideal setting for their children’s treatment.
1. Pediatric Expertise
The expertise and training of the medical staff at an infusion center are crucial to consider first. So, parents should ask about the qualifications and experience of the nurses and healthcare professionals administering the pediatric infusions.
LUX Infusion is pleased to offer care from certified pediatric infusion nurses who have a passion for everything pediatrics.
Specialized training in pediatric infusion therapy ensures that every child receives the best possible care. That involves:
Managing potential complications
Quickly and effectively treating any adverse reactions
Communicating in an age-appropriate way to put children and parents at ease before, during, and after pediatric infusion therapy
2. Child-Friendly Environment
Parents should look for centers that prioritize creating a child-friendly space with amenities, such as:
Inviting, bright, and colorful décor
Toys and games
Movies and other entertainment options
Comfortable seating for both children and accompanying family members
A welcoming environment can significantly reduce anxiety and make the pediatric infusion process more manageable and far less stressful for children. That can create more incentive for children and parents to return for treatment.
At LUX Infusion, we understand how the infusion center environment can play a vital role in a child's comfort and overall experience. That’s why our entire team is focused on maintaining a positive, friendly, and comfortable environment for all pediatric infusion therapy sessions.
3. Heightened Safety
Safety is paramount during pediatric infusion therapy.
LUX Infusion proudly prioritizes safety, with specific safety protocols in place for:
Infection control
Sterilization practices
Medication handling
Medical equipment use and storage
And more.
We always strive to clearly communicate our protocols to help parents feel more confident about the safety of their child's infusion treatment. We also encourage parents to ask questions and inquire about any protocols they would like more information about.
4. Care Coordination
Effective communication between parents, healthcare providers, and other caregivers is essential for successful infusion therapy.
LUX Infusion values communication as a mainstay tool to ensure high-quality experiences for all parties. To that end:
We have a full-time Patient Navigator and Intake Coordinator to assist providers and families in navigating insurance coverage, prior authorizations, copay assistance programs, and more.
Our clinical team is always available to provide any amount of patient education as families prepare for first doses and beyond.
We recommend parents choose a center that:
Emphasizes open communication
Provides clear instructions on pre-infusion preparations and post-infusion care
Offers ongoing support and guidance throughout the pediatric infusion therapy process.
5. Patient Empowerment
Empowering patients, both young and old, with knowledge about the infusion therapy process is crucial.
A reputable ambulatory infusion center, like LUX Infusion, will offer comprehensive patient education resources, including training on:
Medication administration
How to recognize and manage potential side effects
When to seek medical assistance
Educated and empowered parents play a significant role in ensuring the success and safety of pediatric infusion therapy.
Setting Pediatric Infusion Therapy Up for Success: The Bottom Line
Choosing an ambulatory infusion center for pediatric infusion therapy requires careful consideration.
Several factors should be evaluated to zero in on the ideal options for pediatric infusions.
By prioritizing expertise, comfort, safety, communication, and education, parents can help ensure a successful and positive experience for any type of pediatric infusion therapy.
If you need more information about pediatric infusions or you’re ready to schedule an appointment, simply contact LUX Infusion.
Our Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Palmer, AK, infusion clinics are conveniently located, offering a variety of pediatric infusions in a kid-friendly, ultra-comfortable, luxurious setting. We are also opening a Fairbanks infusion center in the summer of 2024 to further serve patients and continue expanding our adult and pediatric infusion offerings.
