Were you told that your kidneys are failing and that you need to start dialysis immediately?
You are likely overwhelmed and have a lot of questions but not sure where to start and whom to contact. You are not alone! Believe it or not, many people start dialysis unprepared.
Our Transitional dialysis program is here to help you.
What is Transitional Dialysis Program?
Starting dialysis is a lifestyle change and can be stressful for you and your family. The Washington University Transitional Dialysis Program is specifically designed to guide you and your family during this time. Our goal is to transition you smoothly into your new life.
What is the purpose of Transitional Dialysis Program?
At Washington University, we recognize that when it comes to dialysis, one size does not fit all. The purpose of this program is to educate you on everything related to kidney disease and treatment options including diet, medications, different kinds of dialysis, and transplant. Our team will help you choose the right dialysis that best fits your lifestyle. You will also get the emotional and social support that you and your family deserve during the transition time.
What are the goals of Transitional Dialysis program?
Through this program, our goal is to help our patients to:
- Recover medically
- Adjust emotionally to their new life with dialysis.
- Get dietary and social support
- Get assistance with medications
- Receive one-on-one education about kidney disease and treatment options, including transplant
- Choose the type of dialysis that is best for them
Is this program for me?
This program is for you if you answer yes to any of the following questions.
- Did you recently start dialysis and are overwhelmed?
- Did you hear from your kidney doctor that you have to start dialysis immediately and you are not sure what kind of dialysis you want?
- Are you getting in-center hemodialysis for some time and would like to look into other dialysis options?
How is this program different from any other dialysis program?
Transitional Dialysis Program is a 4- week program during which you will get dialysis at one of the Washington university dialysis units. Your care team will meet with you, on a one-on-one basis, during your dialysis sessions and will educate you on all things related to kidney disease. You will be given resources for later review as well. Our goal is to have you and your family well equipped with all the information you need to make right choices.
What to expect if I choose Transitional Dialysis Program?
Once you choose Transitional dialysis program, our care team will be in close contact with you to get you on schedule for the dialysis sessions. You will be on dialysis 4 times per week, in the privacy of a smaller room. You will be educated on various things related to dialysis and kidney disease while on dialysis. We encourage active participation from your family and they can be by your side during dialysis sessions.
Who is my care team?
Your Transitional Dialysis Team of Experts includes:
- Nephrologist (Kidney Doctor)
- Nurse Practitioner
- Registered Nurse
- Patient Care Technician
- Renal Dietitian
- Social Worker
What are our previous Transitional Dialysis Program patients saying?
“I can live every day not scared, and I’m much happier now.”
How do I get more information about this program?
Please contact us at 314-286-0818 and we will be happy to assist you.