SPEAKER: Suzanne Strassers
ROOM: Champagne 3/4
CONTACT HOURS: 1
CRNI RUs: 2

This session will explore best practices for administering immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy, covering various Ig products available, and delineate the differences between subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIG), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and facilitated SCIG. Additionally, approved indications for Ig therapy will be reviewed.

The focus will then shift to nursing considerations and best practices for managing patients receiving Ig therapy. The objective of this session is to educate infusion nurses on the technical aspects of Ig therapy and emphasize the importance of enhancing patient tolerability to foster a positive infusion experience. Fostering a positive infusion experience is essential, as immunoglobulin therapy is a long-term treatment, and adherence to this regimen directly influences the patient’s overall clinical outcomes.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, learners will be able to:

• Describe the different ways Ig can currently be infused, why Ig is considered highly technical, and how nurses can provide a good infusion experience to the patient. • Discuss black box warnings associated with Ig products, common adverse drug reactions (ADRs), how to minimize the risk of ADRs, and how to minimize the rick of ADRs during and after infusions. • Explain risks associated with Ig therapy, how to monitor the patient for signs of intolerability during the infusion, potential serious adverse events and how to respond, educating the patient on the product and their disease state