WHAT IS IT?
Dialysis is required when the body’s kidneys can no longer do their job of removing the wastes and fluid from the blood. This type of dialysis will allow you to work with a nurse who will support you, and teach you how to connect yourself to the hemodialysis machine, which will clean your blood. This must be done approximately five times per week. It is not painful, but it is time-consuming. This treatment is based in a patients’ home.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Home Hemodialysis is for patients whose kidneys have stopped working properly and need regular treatments to stay alive. To be a good candidate, you need to be actively interested in your care, have a home and be able to manipulate some small instruments with your hands.
WHERE IS IT OFFERED?
Eventually the program will be extended to every community, but at the moment it is available in Chisasibi, Waskaganish and Waswanipi. The training takes place in Waskaganish at the Ispeyimuunikamikw Centre.
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
Each hemodialysis session takes 3-4 hours. You will need 6 weeks of training in preparation for home hemodialysis.
WHAT other options do i have?
In-centre hemodialysis à https://creehealth.org/health_tip/in-centrehemodialysis
Peritoneal dialysis à https://creehealth.org/health_tip/Peritonealdialysis
Some people also choose to not undergo any treatment and maintain conservative care à https://creehealth.org/health_tip/ConservativeCare
WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?
You can discuss the possibility of home hemodialysis with the physician currently responsible for treating your kidney disease or your nurse.
