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Can Mom get IV fluids or injections at home instead of going to the hospital?

My mother's doctor mentioned she may need regular injections and possibly IV fluids. Getting her to the clinic is very hard. Can a nurse do this at home, and what does the doctor need to order?

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Anna Klyauzova, RN, MSN, MPAProLife team

Yes, in many cases a nurse can give injections and IV fluids at home, but it requires a written order from her doctor that specifies what is given, how, and how often.

What the doctor usually needs to provide:

  • A specific order for the medication or fluids, the route, the schedule and how long treatment lasts.
  • Lab work or monitoring instructions, if needed.
  • A pharmacy or infusion company to supply the medication, IV supplies and pump if one is used.

Who pays depends on the situation. If she qualifies for Medicare home health (homebound and needing skilled care), a Medicare-certified agency may cover nursing visits; the medications and infusion supplies may be billed separately. Call 1-800-MEDICARE or her plan to confirm.

Ask the doctor which signs mean she needs to go to the hospital anyway. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, sudden confusion, or a severe reaction after a medication.

Things the family can prepare: a clean, well-lit space near a chair or bed, a list of her current medications and allergies, and a way to reach the doctor's office.

ProLife provides private RN visits for injections, IV care and catheters from $95/hour; see https://prolifehc.com/nurse-services/ or call (718) 232-2777.

Anna Klyauzova, RN, MSN, MPA · Director of Patient Services, ProLife Home Care

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