Iron is a mineral that is essential for producing a protein called Haemoglobin in the blood which carries oxygen around the body. Not enough iron can lead to a condition called anaemia. In some cases iron can be replaced by taking a tablet but in others it is necessary to administer it by an intravenous infusion through a needle (cannula) straight into the vein.
This can be because:
- Oral iron does not work for you or you cannot tolerate it.
- Your doctor decides you need iron quickly to build up your iron stores.
To improve haemoglobin levels where other measures have been tried and oral iron is ineffective at maintaining a reasonable haemoglobin level.
You must not receive IV iron if:
- You are allergic to injectable Iron medications
- You have liver problems such as ‘Cirrhosis’
- You have received Iron in the last 7 days
- If you are in the first 12 weeks (known as 1st trimester) of pregnancy
- You currently have an infection.
Please tell your doctor/nurse/midwife of any allergies or health conditions such as asthma, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease or liver disease prior to treatment. If you have any queries or concerns regarding your iron infusion then please do not hesitate to contact the doctor or specialist nurse responsible for your treatment.
IV Iron is administered by multiple specialties (Surgical/Medicine/Haematology/Renal/Gynaecology) at various locations across the QA site. You will be contacted by the relevant team who will organise your infusion.
Assent process
It is very important that you have read and understand the information in the leaflet or Video:
The leaflet/video will cover possible side effects which maybe encountered, and complications such as brown tissue staining. You will be asked if you have read and understand the information contained within the video or leaflet, and that you agree to proceed with the treatment.
You will be discharged with the relevant post infusion information which will contain relevant ‘aftercare’ advice including who to contact (telephone number) for further advice if required.
You will be required to have a blood test around four weeks (two weeks if you are due to have surgery) after your last IV Iron infusion. This will be organised by the team responsible for your care. There are several convenient locations across the QA site where you can have your blood test. Please speak to a member of staff on the day of your infusion if you require further information.