Where to set up NxStage equipment?

[Angiepkd]

I am going to start my NxStage training on March 4th. My home visit is next week, and they need to look at my set up. I don't have a recliner, but do have a comfy chair in my living room that I plan on using. If my fistula is in my left arm, where do I want to put the machine? I was thinking on the right side so I can push buttons, etc. anyone have suggestions as to what way works better? I am going to rearrange some furniture this week and want to have everything in the most convenient spot. Thanks for the help!

[cattlekid]

My fistula is in my left arm and my machine is on my left side.  It was the only place it would fit.  I don't have any problems pushing buttons with my right hand.  What I did was have the delivery driver set up the PureFlow with the door facing out (towards the room) and then put the NxStage on top of the PureFlow but facing me.  So the side of the NxStage is facing out towards the room as well.  The nurse was so impressed that I told the driver to do that.  I told her it would have been the only way that I could have reached the buttons!   

[Angiepkd]

Thanks for the help! I will ask the driver to do the same for me!

[amanda100wilson]

suggest the same side as fistula otherwise you are going to have lines crossing your bodywhich may put you at risk of catching on them and dislodging needles.

[KatieV]

My fistula is on the left and my machine was on the right.  The lines laid neatly in my lap.  The machine was close enough I could push the buttons.  We just moved it into the bedroom and it will now have to be on my left.  I'll have to try turning the cycler.  My home visit for nocturnal is tomorrow!  I'm so excited.

If you don't already have one, I strongly recommend getting a cart to put the Pureflow on.  It will be a bear to move otherwise.   Even with a waterlogged PAK, it was easy rolling it into the bedroom.

[Angiepkd]

My setup would work best if the machine was on the right. I think I can manage not to get twisted in the lines if I am careful. Congratulations on getting to do nocturnal! Hope it all works out for you!  What type of cart did you get? I would definitely like to be able to move things around (I am a little OCD and like to vacuum under things).  Thanks to all for the suggestions!

[KatieV]

I shopped around online and found a "platform cart" that works pretty well.  I don't remember exactly where I got it, but it looks similar to this one: www.handtrucksrus.com/newplatform.aspx .  Make sure it will support the weight of a full SAK (I think I remember 250 to 300 lbs).  Mine was under $75.00 including shipping.

Or ask your center if they can order you wheels.  My home visit was a few minutes ago.  The nurse said they supply their patients with wheels that fit unto the Pureflow.  The center buys them from NxStage.  My previous center apparently doesn't - maybe yours will?

[Angiepkd]

Thanks KatieV! I will ask my center and if they don't supply one I will order it. Hope your home visit went well!

[lola]

Otto had his in the living room against the wall to his left, we also put a mat under it in case of leaks BEST advice EVER from VERY smart people here cause at some point something will leak. Also ANY thing you buy save all reciept's as we wrote that off 

[Angiepkd]

Great advice, lola! Thanks! Crazy that one of my worries is getting blood on the furniture or dialysate on the carpet. Since I am not working right now and feeling worse by the day, I have a LOT of time to think, worry, plan, etc. hubby is out-of-town, kids are busy, so lots of me time. Thanks again!

[Speedy1wrc]

My machine is on the right with my access on the left. It works fine. It's actually convenient as the saline T ends up on my lap so I have easy access should I need it. Whatever works better for you and your home.

I also bought office chair mats for the floor. Even just priming the lines can cause drips and spills, it's worth it.

My center supplied me with a moving dolly to put the PureFlo on. It's not elegant but it works. You'll definitely want a set of wheels, just in case as they say.

[lmunchkin]

I built platform w/h wheels for my PF. and for another person who is doing the same thing as us.  You will really need big casters for this platform, as it will be hard if you have carpet.


lmunchkin