B.Y.O.B.: Bring Your Own Bandages

[RightSide]

Twice this past month, my dialysis center actually ran out of waterproof bandages to cover the catheter sites with.  I could not believe it.  Fortunately, I had the presence of mind to bring my own Tegaderm bandages from home, just in case.  (To my felllow catheter patients at my center, lots of luck to you.)

I think I'm going to bring a couple of Tegaderm with me from now on, every time I have dialysis.  In fact, I told my dialysis nurse that I might as well just bring my entire first-aid kit from home too.  She was not amused.

BTW, in case anyone else ever needs these, it's Tegaderm 1626W (4 in x 4 3/4 in).  The best price I've seen yet was at Hocks.com, for $1.03 each.

[okarol]

I would call the main office and complain, if it happened at Jenna's clinic. If you start bringing your own, they'll like that idea and after a while, everyone will be required to do it. Think of the money they will save - but I doubt they'll lower the treatment fee.
Maybe I am just jaded. But to me it's lousy service. It's like going to a restaurant, and you have to bring your own napkins. But much worse.

Before they start your dialysis, ask them if they have the bandages. If not, tell them they have 3 1/2 hours to get some - and you can even tell them where to go get them.

[kitkatz]

I like Karol's suggestion.  Tell them about your needs and wants.

My clinic ran out of Benadryl one night last week. Holy moley!

[G-Ma]

The center I attended in ND would always give me 3 to 4 every time they changed mine so I had a small stockpile that did come in handy.  I always kept them in my duffle bag and a couple times they had just run out and I was able to pull one out but luckily they can't use my stash on someone else because I have touched the wrapping...yippeee.....I'm sure my ins was charged anyway.   But KK and OKarol are correct RightSide....not good to start knowingly provide your own items....as they said complain.....someone is not doing their job...ordering supplies....     

[kellyt]

That's very smart to bring back-up bandages.  We talk about taking charge of your own care all the time and being prepared just makes sense.  I find it ridiculous that the clinic ran out, but at least you were taken care of by start thinking.

It's scary to think that this might become the norm in this economy.  I can just see the signs now  "XYZ Clinic will not longer provide bandages/needles/Benadryl/etc.  Please bring your own".   Ugh!

Oh yeah, followed by "We appreciate your business".     

[kitkatz]

Oh and we are going to charge you more.

[G-Ma]

and please turn out the lights when you leave