How To Keep Comfy During Dialysis
May 11th, 2018 by admin
At our Vascular Access Center here at Kidney Care and Transplant Services we’re going to have an amazing team working together to ensure your access or “lifeline” is completely ready for when you begin hemodialysis. While we can handle the technical side of preparing you for your first hemodialysis appointment we also wanted to give you some ideas for what to bring with you to stay comfortable and keep your mind occupied while you wait for your dialysis to finish.
Unfortunately dialysis isn’t a quick, in-and-out type of treatment. We wish we could say “30 minutes and you’re done!” However the typical treatment lasts around four hours. Here are some ideas of helpful items to bring along to your appointment so you can feel nice and comfortable:
- A Cozy Blanket: You’ll be stationary for a decent amount of time and most dialysis centers aren’t cranking up the heat. A nice cozy blanket will keep you warm and give you a sense of comfort while you wait.
- A Small Pillow: You’ll be able to settle in better by placing a small pillow behind your back or head to make sitting in one place for so long more bearable.
- Warm Socks or Slippers: Kick back and relax! You won’t be going anywhere for a little while so you might as well make yourself at home while you can. Something warm on your toes can do wonders for the rest of your comfort.
- Layer Up: Wear layers of clothing so you can adjust your temperature while you sit. Add a sweater, hat and even gloves if you start feeling a chill, take ‘em off when you warm up!
Don’t forget something to keep your mind occupied too. Now could be the perfect time to teach yourself to crochet or finally write that book you’ve been talking about for ages. Of course a good book to read, a phone or tablet full of music and movies and good ol’ conversation with others receiving dialysis or a loved one who’s sitting with you are also great ways to pass the time. Find something you love doing and it will feel like you blink your eyes and the session is over.
We know that beginning dialysis may not have exactly been on your bucket list, however it’s still possible to make the most of your time. We hope that you’ve found this helpful and good luck beginning your treatment!
Learn more about Kidney Care and Transplant Services as well as our Vascular Access Center here: https://www.kidneycare-ne.com/services/vascular-access/
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