Consent & Information

Iron Infusion (Ferinject)

Please read this page carefully before your appointment. It covers what to expect during and after your infusion, the risks involved, and what to watch for at home. Your nurse will go through this with you on the day — this is here so you can read it at your own pace beforehand.

This page has been sent to you privately. It does not appear on our public website. It is intended solely to support your informed consent process prior to your iron infusion at Her Medical.

Before your appointment

Before your infusion is administered, your doctor will confirm that it is safe and appropriate to proceed. This includes reviewing your iron studies and any relevant pathology results, and ensuring there are no contraindications.

Please let us know before your appointment if you:

  • Have a known allergy to iron or any intravenous medications
  • Have had a reaction to an iron infusion previously
  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
  • Are currently taking any new medications or supplements
  • Have a current infection or feel unwell

How to prepare

  • Eat and drink normally before your appointment — do not fast
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing with easy access to your arm
  • You are welcome to bring something to read, listen to, or watch during the infusion
  • Plan to be with us for approximately one hour in total — 30 minutes for the infusion and 30 minutes for observation afterwards

The procedure

Your iron infusion will be administered by one of our trained nurses, with a doctor on site throughout.

1. Cannula insertion: A small cannula (a thin flexible tube) is inserted into a vein in your arm or hand. This may feel like a brief sharp scratch.
 
2.Infusion — approximately 30 minutes: Ferinject is delivered slowly through the cannula. You will be seated comfortably throughout. Our nurse will check on you regularly.
 
3.Observation — 30 minutes: After the infusion is complete, you will remain with us for 30 minutes so we can monitor you for any delayed reactions. This is a routine and important part of the process.
 
4.Cannula removal & discharge: Once your observation period is complete and our nurse is satisfied you are well, the cannula is removed and you are free to go.

Safety information

Common and generally mild

  • Headache or dizziness during or shortly after the infusion
  • Nausea
  • Flushing or a feeling of warmth
  • Muscle aches or joint pain in the days following — this is sometimes called post-infusion syndrome and usually resolves within 48 hours
  • A metallic taste in the mouth during the infusion
  • Mild bruising or discomfort at the cannula site

Skin staining – important to know

If any iron leaks from the vein during the infusion, it can cause brown discolouration of the skin around the injection site. This is called extravasation. It is not dangerous, but the staining can be permanent or very long-lasting.

Our nurses take every precaution to prevent this from happening. Please tell your nurse immediately if you feel any burning, stinging, or swelling at the cannula site during the infusion.

Example of iron infusion skin staining on an arm

What skin staining can look like

This photo shows an example of iron staining following extravasation during an infusion. The discolouration can range from light tan to dark brown and may cover a larger area than expected. While not harmful, it can be permanent. Please let your nurse know immediately if you feel any discomfort at the infusion site.

Less common but important

  • Low blood pressure or faintness during the infusion
  • Hypophosphataemia – a temporary drop in phosphate levels, which can cause fatigue or bone pain. This is more common with repeated infusions
  • Skin rash or itching

Rare but serious – Anaphylaxis

Severe allergic reactions to Ferinject are rare but can occur. This is why you are monitored for 30 minutes after your infusion and why a doctor is always on site. Signs of a reaction include difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the face or throat, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Our team is trained to respond immediately if this occurs.

Seek URGENT help if you experience

After leaving the clinic, contact us or go to your nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of your face, lips, or throat
  • A rash that is spreading or worsening
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Severe dizziness or feeling faint
  • Worsening pain, swelling, or discolouration at the infusion site

Her Medical: 07 5616 8070

After hours: Gold Coast University Hospital Emergency Department

After your appointment

Most people feel well after leaving the clinic, though some experience mild tiredness or muscle aches in the following day or two. This is normal.

  • You can drive home after your observation period unless you feel dizzy or unwell
  • Eat and drink normally — there are no dietary restrictions after your infusion
  • You do not need to stop taking oral iron supplements unless your doctor has advised otherwise
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for the remainder of the day
  • If you experience post-infusion muscle or joint aches, paracetamol can help — follow the dosage on the packet
  • Keep the cannula site clean and dry for a few hours after your appointment

When will I feel better?

Iron levels typically begin to improve within one to two weeks of the infusion, though it can take four to eight weeks to feel the full benefit as your body uses the iron to build red blood cells. Fatigue often improves before your blood results do.

Follow-up blood tests

Your doctor will arrange follow-up iron studies to check your levels after the infusion. It is important to attend this appointment so we can confirm the treatment has been effective and determine whether further infusions are needed.

Your consent

Informed consent

By proceeding with this procedure, you are confirming that you:

  • Have read and understood the information on this page
  • Have had the opportunity to ask questions and have them answered to your satisfaction
  • Understand the procedure being performed, including how Ferinject is administered and the potential risks involved
  • Have been made aware of the risk of skin staining from extravasation and understand it may be permanent
  • Understand that you will be monitored for 30 minutes after the infusion and that you must remain on site for this period
  • Understand that you may withdraw your consent at any time before the infusion begins
  • Are aware that your personal information will remain strictly confidential

Your nurse and doctor will confirm your consent before the infusion begins. If you have any questions before you arrive, please call us on 07 5616 8070.

Financial consent

Financial consent

Before your appointment, please review and complete our financial consent form. This outlines the fees associated with your iron infusion and confirms your agreement to these costs prior to attending.

Please complete this before your appointment day.

Complete financial consent