Nova Scotia Health. Multi-Organ Transplant Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

0196

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Having a kidney transplant is a treatment for kidney failure. Kidney failure is also known as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). A healthy kidney from one person (the donor) is placed (transplanted) into another person (the recipient). Treatment is usually very successful. This pamphlet explains what to expect when you have a kidney transplant. Topics include getting on the kidney transplant wait list, what to do while you wait for a kidney transplant, what to expect when you get called for a kidney…

Nova Scotia Health Authority. QE II. Diagnostic Imaging, Nova Scotia Health Authority. QE II. Department of Nephrology. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2024.

Pamphlet Number

0229

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A fistulogram is a special X-ray that shows any narrowing(s) in your dialysis access (fistula or graft). This pamphlet explains how the test is done, how to get ready for it, and what to expect after the test.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2021.

Pamphlet Number

0633

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This pamphlet explains how to do your own peritoneal dialysis at home. It also explains how to deal with drain, fill, and mechanical problems. The Simplified Chinese version of this pamphlet 2214, is also available. The Russian version of this pamphlet 2379, is also available. The Vietnamese version of this pamphlet 2390, is also available.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Nephrology/Dialysis Services. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2023.

Pamphlet Number

0739

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Parathyroidectomy is a surgery that removes your parathyroid glands. Your parathyroid glands are in your neck (usually on the back of the thyroid gland). They help to control your blood calcium and phosporous levels. Hyperparathyroidism is when one or more of the parathyroid glands makes too much parathyroid hormone in your blood. If this happens, you will need a parathyroidectomy. This pamphlet explains what a parathyroidectomy is, the possible complications with this surgery, care after surge…

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Nutrition and Food Services. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2024.

Pamphlet Number

0127

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Our bodies need fluid to work properly. The kidneys, liver, and heart work to keep fluids in balance. Sometimes, fluid builds up in our bodies. With some medical conditions, you may need to limit your fluid intake. This pamphlet lists signs that fluid may be building up in your body and tips for managing your fluid intake.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2019.

Pamphlet Number

1226

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This pamphlet reviews what to expect before, during and after surgery for the insertion of a peritoneal dialysis catheter. Information includes how to get your bowels ready for surgery, what to bring to the hospital on the day of surgery, care of your incision/exit site and keeping your bowels regular after surgery. Information about peritoneal dialysis teaching is also provided.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Central Zone. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2023.

Pamphlet Number

1220

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This pamphlet is for patients who are beginning dialysis. It explains what to expect when starting hemodialysis, common questions you may have, your hemodialysis schedule, and your hemodialysis health care team. Information about Patient Rights and Responsibilities, Patient Relations, and Ethics is included. The pamphlet also includes a list of resources and words you may hear during your treatment. A blank Hemodialysis Care Plan, Hemodialysis Tracking Sheet, and Hemodialysis checklist are also…

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Home Dialysis Unit. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2021.

Pamphlet Number

1341

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Staff in the Home Dialysis Unit at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre (QEII) teach patients how to do dialysis treatments at home. This pamphlet gives information about where to stay if you live more than 40 km (25 miles) from Halifax, the dialysis training process, supplies, and follow-up. Different types of dialysis are explained.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2024.

Pamphlet Number

1445

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Kayexalate® is a medication that treats high potassium levels in the body. High potassium levels can be dangerous if you have kidney disease. This pamphlet explains why you may need this medication, how to take it, side effects, and how to store it.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. QEII. Pharmacy Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority. QEII. Vascular Access Services. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

1444

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This pamphlet gives directions for dialysis patients on warfarin who are having an interventional radiology procedure. The pamphlet explains what an interventional radiology procedure is. Space is provided to write the name and date of your procedure, as well as instructions to follow before and after your procedure. Instructions about what to do if you notice any bleeding or bruising in the area of your body where the procedure was done are included.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program, Nova Scotia Health Authority. Pharmacy Services. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2020.

Pamphlet Number

1475

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This pamphlet describes how to get ready for a colonoscopy if you have chronic kidney disease. Steps to prepare solutions on the day before your colonoscopy are listed. The day before your procedure and on the day of the test you should drink only clear liquids, and a suggested list is included. Remember not to eat any food or drink milk, or other liquids that are not clear, on the day before your colonoscopy or on the day of the test.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Kidney Transplant Clinic. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

1510

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BK virus is a part of the polyoma virus family. About 80% of people carry the virus. People usually get this virus as children. It can stay inactive in your body without causing harm for many years. It can become active if you are immunocompromised (your immune system is weak). People who have had a kidney transplant and are taking immunosuppressive medications (medications that suppress [lower] your immune system) are at risk of infection from the virus. This pamphlet explains the symptoms of …

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2023.

Pamphlet Number

1514

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Tums® (calcium carbonate) is a medication used to treat high levels of phosphorus in the body. This pamphlet explains why people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need this medication and how to use it. The French version of this pamphlet 2236, "TumsMD (carbonate de calcium) et maladies rénales," is also available.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

0397

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A fistuloplasty is a non-surgical procedure used to open blocked or narrowed blood vessels in your fistula. The blood vessel is stretched with a special balloon. The pamphlet outlines who will do your procedure, where it is done, how long you will be at the hospital, how to get ready, and how the procedure is done. What happens after, risks, and a list of symptoms to watch for are provided.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

1032

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A tunneled hemodialysis catheter is a special tube made of plastic. It is used for hemodialysis treatment. This pamphlet explains the procedure for having a tunneled hemodialysis catheter inserted. Topics include: why the catheter is used, how long it will be in place, where the procedure is done, how long you will be at the hospital, how to get ready, and how the catheter is inserted. Instructions for after your procedure and care at home are provided.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

1093

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A non-tunneled hemodialysis catheter is a special tube made of plastic. It is used for hemodialyis treatment. This pamphlet explains the procedure for having a non-tunneled hemodialysis cathether inserted. Topics include: why the catheter is used, how long it can stay in place, how it is inserted, what will happen after the procedure, and how to care for your catheter at home. The pamphlet also explains what to do if the catheter falls out.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

0651

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An arteriovenous (AV) fistula gives access to your bloodstream for hemodialysis. It is made by joining an artery and a vein during surgery. This pamphlet explains when your fistula will be ready to use, what to expect after your surgery, how to care for your incision (cut), and how to exercise your fistula arm before and after surgery. It also includes information about what to do if you have bleeding at your fistula site, and a list of symptoms that need medical attention right away.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Renal Program. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2020.

Pamphlet Number

1760

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Dalteparin is a medication that is part of a group of drugs called blood thinners. Fragmin® is the brand name of dalteparin. During hemodialysis your blood passes through the dialysis blood lines and a dialyzer (artificial kidney), which can cause clots to form. Dalteparin stops clots from forming. This pamphlet explains how to take dalteparin, possible side effects, and symptoms that you should mention to your nurse.

Nova Scotia Health Authority. QEII. Kidney Transplant Clinic. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2023.

Pamphlet Number

1805

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This pamphlet lists medications you should not take if you get very sick with diarrhea (loose, watery poop), or you are vomiting (throwing up). These medications keep your blood pressure down, and protect your kidneys and heart. They can also harm you if you do not have enough fluids in your body. Diarrhea and vomiting can make you dehydrated (not have enough fluids in your body). Information about what to do if you have not taken your medication(s) for more than 1 day (24 hours) and/or cannot …

Nova Scotia Health Authority. Physiotherapy. Halifax, NS: Nova Scotia Health Authority , 2022.

Pamphlet Number

1299

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It is very important to stay active while you wait for your liver transplant. People who are in better physical condition before their surgery are more likely to get better faster and have fewer complications. This pamphlet explains why activity is so important and provides an exercise program which includes strengthening and cardio exercises. The French version of this pamphlet 1839, "Programme de physiothérapie avant une transplantation du foie", is also available.