Your Dialysis Care Team
Many people change treatment options over the course of their dialysis journey in order to best fit their lifestyle. No matter which treatment you choose, remember that you are the most important part of your support network. You and your loved ones play a crucial role in your health. You can be a key player in your success by taking an active role in your care. Learning all you can about your treatment will help you feel more empowered in your journey.
Although your care starts with you, you are never alone. Your dialysis care team will give you the tools needed to feel confident and in control of your kidney care. Learn more about each member of your dialysis care team and how they will support you during treatment. You’ll receive support every step of the way.
Starting with the most important person—YOU!
You, in fact, play the most important role on your care team. By taking control of your kidney care and following your treatment plan, you can feel your best and continue to do the things you love. Here are some tips for getting the most out of dialysis treatment:
- Keep your scheduled doctor and dialysis center appointments.
- Always complete your full training and treatment times.
- Choose your dialysis access site and take care of it to prevent complications.
- Take your dialysis medications when and how they are prescribed by your doctor.
- Manage your fluid intake and follow the customized meal plan given to you by your kidney dietitian.
- Ask questions. Take notes. Learn as much as you can to help you make the health care decisions that are right for you.
- Always tell your care team about any changes or concerns you have with your health, your medications, your access site, or your supplies and equipment.
- Start an exercise routine if your doctor gives you the okay.
Meet Brian
Your nephrologist (kidney doctor)
Your nephrologist is the head of your care team and the leader of your Care Plan. They will prescribe the dialysis treatment (home or in-center dialysis) that best fits your needs and lifestyle. Your nephrologist will work with you and, if you prefer, your care partner to understand your goals and help you get the most out of your treatment.
Your nephrologist will also prescribe medications to be taken during dialysis and may even prescribe medicines for other health conditions. Each month, you’ll meet with your nephrologist so that they can carefully monitor and assess your treatment progress and make any necessary changes to your care plan.
Your dialysis nurse
Your dialysis nurse oversees every part of your Care Plan. They will be a key partner in helping you thrive on dialysis. For people on home dialysis, your nurse will guide you through home dialysis training. They will teach you (and your care partner, if you have one) everything you need to know to feel comfortable with your treatment⏤including how to best take care of yourself, your dialysis machine (if you dialyze with one), your equipment, and your treatment space.
If you are doing in-center dialysis, your nurse will supervise your hemodialysis treatment as prescribed by your nephrologist. They will also work closely with your patient care technician (PCT) to administer treatment.
Count on your dialysis nurse to continually work with you, your nephrologist, and the rest of your care team to make sure your treatment plan is going well. Your nurse is also an excellent resource if you ever have questions about your treatment, your lab results, or any other part of your kidney care.
In-center clinical manager & patient care technician
Your social worker
Your social worker is an expert in helping people adjust to all the changes - emotional, physical, and financial—that come with starting dialysis. They understand all the ins and outs of dialysis treatment and will be able to offer information and support for successfully fitting dialysis into your life.
Especially as you first get started with dialysis, your social worker will guide you to resources and support groups that can help you find your way if you feel overwhelmed. They will also be able to help you connect with an insurance coordinator, work while on dialysis, and find resources for medication.
Your dietitian
Fresenius Kidney Care customer service team
