Blood Transfusion: Intravenous Immune Globulin (IVIg)

Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) is a blood product manufactured from large pools of human plasma. IVIG was first introduced to treat immune deficiencies, however today the number of indications for use continues to expand. While IVIG is generally prescribed by a specialist, patients are often maintained and followed-up by a family physician.

This module will focus on the processes for ordering IVIG and monitoring for adverse events.

After completing this module, you will be able to:

1. Identify the primary indications for use of IVIg.
2. Discuss the utilization of IVIg in terms of cost and usage.
3. Describe the concept of using dosing by body weight.
4. List the specialties that commonly use IVIg therapy.
5. Recognize the importance of patient follow-up when using IVIg therapy.
6. Explain the Atlantic Ministries of Health Common Policy.

This continuing professional development (CPD) program has been designed to consider the following roles as defined by the CanMEDS Physician Competency Framework:

• Medical Expert
• Communicator
• Collaborator