Skill: /

Intravenous Immuniglobulin Therapy (IVIG)

Area of Practice: /

Neuroscience Care Induction Skills

Module and Status /

Current Perspectives in Neuroscience NW304

Level: / 3
Author/date of origin: / Mike Blunt – May 2004
Author/date of review:
Time estimate: / 1 hour
Knowledge required related to skill(should know):
  • Demonstrates basic understanding of human immune process and passive/active immunity.
  • Demonstrate awareness of need for immune globulin therapy /replacement.
  • Identify types of neuro-patient who may need or benefit from immunoglobulin therapy.
  • Critically evaluate the side effects/risks of blood product therapy (sensitivity/allergic/ delayed/febrile reactions – and their symptoms)
  • Discuss how to manage possible reactions to IVIG therapy (incl. airway, anaphylaxis and extravasation management).
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  • Identify the equipment (incl. filter size) used in IVIG therapy.
  • Discuss observations required pre/during/ post infusion – give rationale.
  • Awareness of checking weight and taking bloods (incl. tests required) before commencement of therapy – give rationale.
  • Critically discusses why initial serum check for anti-IgA is necessary.
  • Rationale for need of dedicated cannula.
  • If BM measuring required, discuss possible problem with blood glucose monitoring equipment (BM) – MDA alert.

Practice descriptor, i.e. can demonstrate skill used stating knowledge base and act appropriately at this level:
  • Prevention of infusion-reaction/management of same (incl. anaphylaxis).
  • Aware of possible physiological changes through sensitivity reactions to IVIG – able to act appropriately and safely to changes.
  • Maintaining patient safety during and post infusion.
  • Follows guidelines/protocols for administration.
  • Recognises correct form of prescription – discussion with pharmacist as appropriate.
  • Provides suitable monitoring equipment.
  • Employs specialist equipment to administer infusion.
  • Aseptic technique is used during commencement and during infusion.
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  • Giving set is dated and labeled as blood product.
  • Monitors TPR and allied observations and acts appropriately to changes.
  • Monitors fluid balance.
  • Aware of legal issues surrounding blood product administration – accountability/Noting of batch no. – give rationale for same
  • Aware of procedure(s) for reporting possible contaminated or ‘spoilt’ IVIG product.
  • Ability to explain therapy to patient.
  • Involve patient in own care / therapy by explaining side-effects and/or reaction signs so that patient can alert staff to possible sensitivity reactions immediately.
  • Correctly documents / records IVIG administration details (Medical and Nursing notes).