Tips For Home Caregivers Assisting With Dialysis

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Many people who require dialysis report to a medical facility for their care several times per week. But there are patients who can undergo dialysis at home instead. This is often more comfortable for the patient, and it removes the burden of having to transport the patient to and from the doctor's office so often. 

If you have been tasked with assisting a friend or family member with at-home dialysis, here are some tips you can apply to ensure the experience is a good one.

1. Attend a training program

Hospitals often offer training programs for patients and caregivers who are going to work with at-home dialysis. These training programs may consist of a few hour-long sessions over the span of several weeks. Make plans to attend. If the person you are caring for is able to attend, have them come with you. This way, they will know a bit more about the dialysis process, too, which will make them more comfortable as you help administer treatments.

2. Set up a schedule

It's important for at-home dialysis to be performed on a specific schedule. The patient's doctor will supply the recommended schedule. As the caregiver, make sure you design your own schedule to accommodate the patient's needs. Re-arrange your work schedule, arrange for someone else to take care of your kids during dialysis times, and so forth. Deciding on this schedule from the get-go will keep you from having to scramble and change plans when your friend needs dialysis.

3. Plan activities for your loved one

Dialysis treatments can last three to six hours. Your loved one will get pretty bored while sitting there and being treated. As a caregiver, you can plan activities for them to engage in, which will make the treatments easier. Bring a new board game with you to each treatment or learn to knit or crochet together. You could also start watching a new TV program together -- a good option for patients who are less mobile.

4. Note any symptoms

Before, during, and after each dialysis treatment, ask the patient how they are feeling. Also, make note of any changes in their appearance or behavior. If you or they notice anything amiss, report the symptom to their doctor ASAP. Even seemingly benign changes, such as headaches during dialysis, may be an indicator that the dialysis is not being performed properly -- and the doctor can help.

For more information on purchasing a Baxter Dialysis Machine, contact your local medical equipment supplier. 

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