Kidney Korner: Dialysis FAQ Part 2, In-Center Hemodialysis

Previously, we have discussed general FAQs for patients new to dialysis. This week, we want to go more in-depth based on modality, or the type of dialysis you are receiving. 

​Q: What can I do while I have treatment?
A: Each suite has an individual TV for the patient's entertainment while they dialyze. Additionally, you can:

1. Learn something new: take an online course, listen to a podcast, or read a book about a topic you’re interested in
2. Travel from your chair: go on a virtual tour of museums
3. Socialize: Call and catch up with friends or family, scroll through social media
4. Rest and relax: try to catch up on rest by taking a nap and enjoy the time away from work or other responsibilities
5. Get creative: If you have a catheter or mature access, you can crochet, knit, write, color, draw, or do other activities.

​
Q: What is the typical routine on treatment days?
A: Each patient will find a routine that works for them. A typical routine on treatment days can look something like this:

1. Arrive 15 minutes prior to your chair appointment time and check in at the front desk. The team does their best to maintain chair time schedules, but depending on the patients before you, there may be a small delay.
2. A Patient Care Technician (PCT) will come get you when your suite is ready.
3. You will weigh and have your vitals taken. Remember to use the restroom before you weigh!
4. Your PCT will connect you for your treatment.
5. Sit back, relax, and enjoy any of the above listed activities. Your vitals will be monitored regularly throughout treatment.
6. When your treatment is done, a PCT will disconnect you from the dialysis machine. Your vitals will be monitored until you are stable, you will be weighed, and then released to go home. 

Q: Who will I encounter at the facility?
A: At DialySuites Bartram, your passionate, dedicated team will be with you from the time you walk in, to the time you head home. You will encounter the facility coordinator, patient care technicians, dialysis nurses, and your nephrologist. You can read more about the team here. 

Q: Can I drive after treatment?
​A: Many patients are able to drive themselves home from treatment. However, some patients can experience fatigue and other symptoms after treatment, so having a back-up ride or a care partner there to pick you up is a safe option. There are also transportation services available through some insurances. It is recommended that you have transportation scheduled for your first week of treatments to assess how you feel before driving yourself to and from treatments.

Q: Will I be tired on treatment days?
A: After receiving dialysis, you should begin to feel better. Some patients report experiencing fatigue after treatments. Listen to your body and rest as needed after dialysis. 

Q: Can I eat while receiving my dialysis treatment?
A: Unfortunately, no. Eating while on dialysis can risk choking, nausea, vomiting, and/or hypotension. Additionally, it is a sanitation hazard while in the clinic. For in-center hemodialysis, based on your preferences, you can eat before or after your treatment. No food or drinks (even water) are allowed on the dialysis treatment floor.

​Head over to our Facebook page and comment other questions you might have about in-center hemodialysis. As always, stay safe and healthy!

​