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.
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.
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.
This pamphlet gives information on how to heal and stay healthy after your kidney donation surgery. Topics include incision (cut) care, activity, feelings after surgery, medications, Post Donation Program, and symptoms that require a trip to the Emergency Department.
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…
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…
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.
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 …
The liver is an organ in your body that helps to break down and digest the food you eat, cleans your blood, and fights infection. Hepatitis B is a virus that attacks the liver. “Hepatitis” means swelling of the liver. Hepatitis B can cause serious liver problems, including liver damage, liver failure, and liver cancer. People with kidney disease who may need dialysis or a kidney transplant in the future, have a higher chance of getting Hepatitis B. The best way to prevent Hepatitis B is to get …
A highly sensitized patient has a high amount of antibodies. This makes them more likely to reject an organ after transplant. This pamphlet explains how to know if you are highly sensitized, and how the Highly Sensitized Patient Program works.
There are never enough kidneys donated to do transplants for all the people who need them. Some people wait years for the right kidney to be donated. If you are interested in becoming a living kidney donor, this pamphlet will answer some common questions. Topics include: the benefits of a kidney transplant from a living donor, who can donate, deciding to donate, and how to get started if you want to donate a kidney. Information about the donation process, including evaluation, surgery, recovery…
People with kidney disease often take many medications. These medications can help with your kidney disease and other medical conditions (like high blood pressure [hypertension] or diabetes). It is important to take your medications regularly and as told by your health care provider. This pamphlet explains what you need to know about your medications and non-prescription medications, how you can make sure your medications are OK for your level of kidney function, and what will happen if a medic…
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…
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.
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 …
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.