When you arrive at the dialysis center for your first visit, the healthcare team will take care of all aspects of treatment.

 

First, your access area will be washed by a patient care technician; then you will be weighed and escorted to your dialysis chair. Your blood pressure will be taken, both standing and sitting and a dialysis nurse will check your vitals and connect you to the dialysis machine.

 

The typical dialysis session is usually three to four hours. During that time your blood pressure will be taken and the dialysis machine will be monitored. You are free to read, watch television, talk to fellow patients and care team members, sleep or do almost any activity that can be done from the dialysis chair.

 

Once the dialysis treatment time is up, you will be disconnected from the dialysis machine and your vital signs and weight will be recorded again.