Heart Failure Infusion Clinic

The Heart Failure Infusion Clinic is an outpatient resource available to UConn Health Calhoun Cardiology Center heart failure patients who may be struggling with retaining extra fluid, which could lead to hospitalization, reduced quality of life, and other negative outcomes.

Infusion consists of high-dose diuretics administered via an intravenous (IV) line, along with close monitoring of vital signs and labs by a cardiology infusion nurse. You will also be assessed by one of our providers and receive education on managing heart failure at home.

Patients should expect to be in the Infusion Clinic for about four hours, and the frequency of infusion appointments will vary from patient to patient. In order to come to the clinic, patients should be ambulatory.

Your Visit: What You Can Expect

Prior to Your Visit

• You will receive a phone call prior to your infusion to review instructions, including any medications not to take the morning of your infusion.

How to Prepare

• If you are incontinent, please bring extra clothes/briefs/pads in case they get wet.
• Bring something to do (book, tablet, etc.) to help pass the time.
• You should take your usual medications as you normally do before coming in, except:
  • If you take Furosemide (Lasix), Torsemide (Demadex), Bumetanide (Bumex), Metolazone, or Chlorthalidone, do not take this on the morning of the infusion unless you are told otherwise.
• Bring a copy of your current medication list or bring the actual medication bottles so we know what you are taking.
• Eat before coming to the infusion, especially if you are diabetic.
• You can drive yourself to and from the appointment. If you rely on someone to help you get there, please make arrangements before coming in.
• One companion may stay with you while you're here, if you choose.

During Your Visit

• Your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation) will be checked before, during, and after the infusion.
• Labs will be drawn to check your electrolytes and kidney function to ensure they are in a safe range before giving you intravenous (IV) diuretics.
• You may be given some electrolyte replacements if your labs show that your electrolytes are low.
• You will have an IV catheter placed to administer medications.
• A heart failure provider will assess you while you are here and review all of your labs and vital signs.
• A cardiology nurse will administer your medications and stay with you for the duration of your infusion. They will also provide additional heart failure education while you are here.
• You will be provided a meal if you receive a diuretic infusion.
• You will be monitored for a short time after the infusion to ensure you are feeling well enough to go home.
• You might feel tired after your visit, so plan to take it easy the rest of the day. You might also want a family member or friend to stay with you for a few hours after your infusion.
• We will let you know the next steps after your visit, which could include scheduling another infusion or a regular clinic appointment.

After Your Visit

• A nurse will call you within 1-2 business days to check in on you and see how you are feeling.