Starting Home Infusion: First Dose Checklist & Prep Steps

Starting home infusion can feel like a lot at first. This checklist is designed to make the first dose and the first week feel clearer, more organized, and less stressful, so you know what to do and who to contact if questions come up.

Quick Summary

This guide helps you prepare for your first home infusion by covering delivery, supplies, setup, storage, and the most important questions to ask your care team before you begin.

Key Takeaways

Organization reduces stress before the first dose.
Knowing where supplies go and what “normal” looks like helps you feel confident.
If you are unsure about anything, call and ask. Do not guess.
A simple routine can make home infusion feel manageable very quickly.

Why This Matters

If this feels overwhelming, you are not alone. Most patients and caregivers feel much better once they understand the routine and know exactly who to contact. The goal is not perfection. The goal is safety, clarity, and confidence.

Before Your Delivery

Confirm your delivery window

Make sure you know the day and approximate time your supplies will arrive.

Ask about storage requirements

Some medications need refrigeration or special handling. Ask what temperature is required and how long it can be at room temperature, if applicable.

Choose a clean storage space

Pick a clean and dry space away from heat, direct sunlight, pets, and small children.

Save your support contacts

Before the delivery arrives, save the main phone number or contact method you will use for questions.

When Supplies Arrive

Verify labels and therapy details

Check that labels match your name and the therapy you are expecting.

Confirm you received instructions

Look for printed instructions, training notes, or packaging guidance.

Check packaging condition

If anything looks damaged, leaking, or incomplete, call before using it.

Make your setup area easy

Place the items you will use most often in a way that feels organized. This reduces stress when you start.

Before the First Dose

Wash hands thoroughly

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most important safety steps.

Use a clean well lit surface

Choose a surface you can disinfect and where you can clearly see what you are doing.

Review training steps

Do a quick walk through of the steps before starting. If something feels unclear, pause and ask.

Confirm your support pathway

Know the answer to this question before starting:
Who do I contact if I have a question today
And what about after hours

Two Links You Should Bookmark

Infusion pumps and supplies explained

https://www.pharmko.com/blog/infusion-pumps-and-supplies-101

When to call during home infusion red flags

https://www.pharmko.com/blog/when-to-call-during-home-infusion

What to Ask Your Care Team Before You Begin

If you want to feel calmer, ask these questions before your first dose.

Therapy basics

How long does each infusion take
What is the schedule for doses
What symptoms are expected and what symptoms are not

Supplies and storage

Does anything need refrigeration
What should I do if a supply is missing
What should I do if packaging looks damaged

Safety and support

What are the top red flags for my specific therapy
Who do I call during business hours
Who do I call after hours

Safety Note Disclaimer

This content is for education only and does not replace medical advice. Always follow your provider’s instructions for your specific therapy. If something feels unclear, call your care team before proceeding.

FAQs

What if I do not feel confident yet

Ask for clarification before starting. It is normal to need a second walk through. You are not bothering anyone by asking.

What if something looks wrong with the shipment

Call before using it. Do not try to “make it work” if packaging is damaged, labels look incorrect, or you are missing essential supplies.

What if I feel symptoms during the infusion

Stop and contact your care team based on your instructions. If you are unsure, use the red flags guide and call: