What to Expect During IV Therapy — First-Timer's Complete Guide
A step-by-step walkthrough of your first IV therapy session — from arrival to aftercare, with no surprises.
If you have never had IV therapy before, the unknown can feel daunting — especially if needles make you nervous. The good news is that the process is straightforward, professionally managed by registered nurses, and far more comfortable than most first-timers expect. This guide walks you through every stage of a standard IV therapy session so you know exactly what is coming before you walk through the door.
Step-by-Step: Your IV Therapy Session
Arrival and Check-In
Arrive at the clinic (or welcome your mobile nurse if you booked at-home service). You will check in at the front desk, verify your appointment, and complete an intake form covering your health history, current medications, allergies, and the reason for your visit. First-time patients fill out a more detailed new patient form. This is routine and typically takes about 5 minutes.
Provider Consultation
A registered nurse (RN) — who will administer your IV — reviews your intake form, confirms your selected drip, and asks any clarifying questions. They will verify allergies, ask about any medications that could interact with the drip components, and make sure you have eaten and are hydrated. This is also the time to ask your own questions about what to expect. Your nurse will walk you through exactly what they are about to do.
Getting Comfortable
You are seated in a comfortable reclining chair — similar to a dentist's chair but typically more relaxed. Your non-dominant arm is usually preferred, though your nurse will assess both arms to find the best vein. A tourniquet is applied above the elbow to make the vein more prominent. The insertion site is cleaned with an alcohol swab.
IV Insertion
Your nurse inserts a small needle into the vein to place the IV catheter. This is the moment most people are anxious about — and it is almost always anticlimactic. You will feel a brief, mild pinch lasting about one to two seconds. The needle is immediately withdrawn once the catheter is in place; only the soft, flexible plastic tube remains in your vein. The catheter is secured with medical tape. You should feel no discomfort from this point forward.
The Infusion
The IV bag is connected and the drip begins. You relax in your chair for the remainder of the session — typically 30–90 minutes depending on your drip type. Most patients use this time to read, browse their phone, listen to music or a podcast, or simply rest. Your nurse will check in periodically to ensure the drip rate is comfortable and ask how you are feeling. Some sensations during infusion are completely normal and expected — see the section below.
Removal and Aftercare
Once the IV bag is empty, your nurse removes the catheter and applies light pressure with gauze, followed by a small adhesive bandage over the insertion site. They will give you brief aftercare instructions — typically to drink water, avoid strenuous exercise for a couple of hours, and monitor the insertion site for any unusual swelling. You are free to go immediately.
Common Sensations During IV Therapy
These are all normal and expected — not signs of a problem:
Coolness along your arm
IV fluid is delivered at room temperature, which feels cool as it enters your bloodstream. This is completely normal and fades within a few minutes as your body equilibrates.
Slight metallic or vitamin taste
B vitamins — particularly B12 and B-complex — are commonly associated with a mild metallic or earthy taste. It is harmless and usually fades after a few minutes.
Warm flushing or warmth through your chest
Magnesium (found in Myers' Cocktail and many other drips) commonly causes a warm, flushing sensation. Your nurse can slow the drip rate to reduce this if it becomes uncomfortable.
Light-headedness or mild dizziness
Usually the result of not eating beforehand or a minor blood pressure fluctuation. Tell your nurse — they will slow the rate, recline your chair, and offer a snack. Easily managed.
What If I'm Nervous About Needles?
Needle anxiety is extremely common — and IV therapy nurses deal with it every single day. Here are a few things that help:
- →Tell your nurse upfront. They will talk you through each step before doing it, so nothing comes as a surprise.
- →Look away during insertion. You do not need to watch — many people find this makes a big difference.
- →Breathe slowly and deliberately. A slow exhale during insertion reduces perceived pain significantly.
- →Remember the needle is temporary. It is removed within seconds of placement — only the soft catheter remains for the session.
- →Know that most people who are afraid of needles are surprised by how quick and mild the insertion actually is.
After Your Session — What to Expect
Drink water
Continue hydrating after your session. You just received 500ml–1 liter of fluids, but ongoing hydration helps sustain the effects.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 2 hours
Light activity is fine, but skip intense workouts for 2 hours post-session to let your body absorb the nutrients.
Expect energy within hours
Many patients feel effects — improved energy, reduced fatigue, headache relief — within 30–60 minutes of completing the drip.
Minor bruising at the site is normal
A small bruise at the insertion point is common and resolves within a few days. Apply a cold compress if sore.