Your vascular access device
Before heading home, your care team will ensure that you have an IV line inserted. This will usually be a vascular access device inserted into a vein in your arm. Having just one vascular access device means that you don’t need lots of needles to receive your medication. As you’ve chosen to self-administer, you might have had an extension fitted to make sure the infusion process is comfortable.
Important information
- If you notice any redness or anything unusual around the entry site on your arm please contact your OPAT team
- Keep the vascular access device clean and dry where it enters your arm to avoid any potential infection
- You can still have a bath or shower but the vascular access device should not be put in water
- Although you may be able to return to work, avoid any heavy lifting and excessive movement of your arm
Storing your medication
It is important that your medication is stored safely. Your OPAT team will tell you how to store your infusion pump containing your medication (this could be at room temperature or in the fridge).
When storing your medication at room temperature, you should choose a place that is:
- Cool, clean and dry
- Away from direct sunlight and heat sources (such as cooker or radiator)
- Out of the reach of children