Your first infusion day

What happens at a chemotherapy or immunotherapy infusion visit, what to bring, and when to call after you go home.

Rosa: Hi, I'm Rosa. Your first infusion day can bring up a lot of questions. Let's walk through the day step by step, so you know what to expect and what to bring.

Your first infusion visit can feel like a big step. Knowing what will happen can make it less scary. Most clinics follow the same basic steps, but every center is a little different. Ask your care team what your day will look like.

Check in: Plan to arrive a little early. Staff will ask your name and date of birth many times during the day. This is a safety step to make sure you get the right medicine.

Blood tests and vitals: Most visits start with blood tests. They show your blood counts and how your liver and kidneys are working. A nurse will check your weight, temperature, blood pressure, and pulse. You may also see your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If your blood tests are not where they need to be, your treatment may be delayed. This is common and is done to keep you safe.

Port or IV: The medicine goes into a vein. If you have a port, the nurse will clean the skin over it and place a small needle into it. If you do not have a port, the nurse will place a thin tube called an IV in your arm or hand. Tell the nurse if you feel pain, burning, or swelling where the needle or IV is.

Pre-medicines: Before your treatment, you may get medicines to prevent nausea or allergic reactions. Some of these can make you sleepy. The pharmacy often mixes your treatment after your blood tests are back, so there may be some waiting.

How long it takes: A visit can last from about 1 hour to most of the day. It depends on your treatment and how busy the clinic is. The first visit is often the longest, because the medicine may be given more slowly while the nurse watches you closely.

Infusion reactions: Some people have a reaction while the medicine is going in. Signs include itching, rash, a warm or red face, chills, back pain, chest tightness, trouble breathing, or feeling dizzy. Tell your nurse right away, even if it seems small. Nurses are trained for this and can stop the medicine quickly. Many people can still finish their treatment after a reaction is treated.

Eating and drinking: Unless your team tells you otherwise, eat a light meal before you come. Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your visit. Bring snacks, since not every clinic has food.

A support person and the ride home: A family member or friend can keep you company, listen to the plan, and take notes. Ask if your clinic allows visitors in the infusion room. Some pre-medicines make it unsafe to drive, so plan a ride home before your visit. Ask a social worker if you need help with rides.

Pumps you take home: Some treatments keep going after you leave. You may go home with a small pump connected to your port. The nurse will show you how to care for it. Keep it dry and do not pull on the tubing. Call your care team if the pump alarms, leaks, or comes loose.

The first week after: Side effects can start the same day or a few days later. Take your home medicines the way your team told you, and write down any symptoms. Call your care team right away for a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, chills, vomiting or diarrhea that will not stop, not being able to drink fluids, or new trouble breathing. Do not wait until morning. If you have an emergency, call 911.

• Insurance card, photo ID, and any papers your clinic asked for.
• A list of all your medicines, including vitamins and herbs.
• Your questions, written down.
• Snacks and a water bottle.
• A sweater, warm socks, or a blanket, since infusion rooms can be cold.
• Something to pass the time, like a book, music, or a phone with a charger and headphones.
• Your care team's day and night phone numbers.
• A ride home, planned ahead of time.

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.