Cystic Fibrosis Program

Vital Care of South Dallas Infusion allows individuals to receive the specialty infusion and nursing care they need in the comfort of their own home. Our Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Program treats patients with chronic progressive pulmonary symptoms like difficulty breathing, infections, inflammation, and respiratory failure.

Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits breathing over time. It also can impact the pancreas, liver, and sinuses leading to other complications such as malnutrition, poor growth, or liver disease. Cystic Fibrosis occurs due to abnormalities in a protein called CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator). This protein acts as a chloride channel and a regulator of sodium. Chloride is part of the body’s electrolyte balance. Chloride combines with sodium to form the salt found in sweat. The test to determine if someone has CF is called a “sweat chloride test.”

Young multiracial doctor having fun with little girl on a wheelchair.

Cystic Fibrosis symptoms may include:

• Fatigue or inability to exercise

• Frequent lung infections, including pneumonia or bronchitis

• Gastrointestinal issues such as fatty stools, constipation, or heartburn

• Male infertility

• Pain in the abdomen

• Persistent coughing, at times with blood or phlegm

• Poor growth or weight gain despite a good appetite

• Very salty sweat

• Wheezing or shortness of breath

• And more

The patients in our Cystic Fibrosis Program may require:

• IV Antibiotics

• Inhaled Antibiotics

• Nutrition Support

According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry, in the United States:

• Approximately 1,000 new cases of Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed each year

• More than 30,000 people are living with Cystic Fibrosis (more than 70,000 worldwide)

• More than 75 percent of people with Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed by age 2

• More than half of the Cystic Fibrosis population is age 18 or older

Life with Cystic Fibrosis can be challenging and taxing on a person; It impacts individuals differently based on factors such as their age or lifestyle. Our heart is to bring comfort to infusion care and simplify the healthcare process for the patients we serve regardless of their stage in life. Since each person’s health situation is unique, we focus on customizing each care plan to meet the needs and lifestyle of the individual.

Our Clinical and Nursing Teams are experienced in Cystic Fibrosis Management and trained to maximize positive therapy outcomes. Whether the patient is an adult, a teen transitioning to adulthood, or a parent of a child with Cystic Fibrosis, Vital Care of South Dallas is here to help by providing education for our home therapies. We also have a team of pharmacists and registered dietitians available to collaborate with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Clinic Physicians and Clinical Teams.

We simplify infusion administration by using Elastomeric Devices to deliver anti-infective medication through an intravenous (IV) line. These pumps are small, lightweight, and portable. They can be carried in a pouch or even sometimes a pocket. They hold the medication in a balloon-like chamber that delivers the medicine at a safe and steady rate without the need for gravity (meaning no IV poles), mechanical pumps, batteries, or programming.

Elastomeric Devices are the preferred administration method by physicians, patients, and nurses. We use them with our patients because they are easy to learn how to use, which increases therapy compliance. Our nurses are compassionate and patient, taking the time to ensure each patient is comfortable administering their medication on their own at home. Each one of our nurses serves as a clinical resource and can answer questions about the drug, treatment, infusion pumps, and more. We also have a pharmacist on-call 24/7 to consult or answer any questions a patient may have.

If you or a loved one are seeking a healthcare company that puts people first, focusing on comfort and specializing in infusion care in the home setting, tell your provider that you want to join the Vital Care of South Dallas Infusion Professionals; We’ll manage the referral process and reach out to you directly to follow up.

What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. It can impact the lungs, pancreas, and other organs due to the production of a sticky, thick mucus caused by the body’s inability to move chloride (a component of salt) to a cell’s surface. Each person’s experience with CF is unique and poses different challenges and symptoms.

How Many People Are Impacted by Cystic Fibrosis?

• Approximately 1,000 new cases of Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed each year

• More than 30,000 people are living with Cystic Fibrosis (more than 70,000 worldwide)

• More than 75 percent of people with Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed by age 2

• More than half of the Cystic Fibrosis population is age 18 or older

According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry, in the United States:

• Approximately 1,000 new cases of Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed each year

• More than 30,000 people are living with Cystic Fibrosis (more than 70,000 worldwide)

• More than 75 percent of people with Cystic Fibrosis are diagnosed by age 2

• More than half of the Cystic Fibrosis population is age 18 or older

Tips for Managing Your Cystic Fibrosis:

Be proactive with your treatment. Stick to the regimen outlined by your physician and communicate about what seems to be working; Talk with your doctor about exploring different treatment options.

Focus on your overall health and well-being. It is important to not only focus on the symptoms you are experiencing but your overall health too; Develop a plan of action with your doctor to eat healthily and stay active.

Get connected with local support groups. Being able to share your story, have access to community resources, and build relationships with other people with your condition is important to managing your mental and emotional health too.

Additional Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Resources:

American Lung Association – An organization working to save lives by improving health and preventing lung disease through research, education, and advocacy. They focus on four initiatives: defeating lung cancer, championing clean air for all, improving the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families, and creating a tobacco-free future. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/cystic-fibrosis/symptoms-diagnosis

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Dedicated to improving the daily lives of people with Cystic Fibrosis. They help people with affording care, finding a specialist, and staying healthy with Cystic Fibrosis. https://www.cff.org/

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Pulmonary Referral Form

Total Parenteral Nutrition Referral Form

Enteral Referral Form

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