The Power of IHD

[Cincygrandma]

Thanks bajanne2000 for the welcome and advice on re-posting.  I've learned more from the IHD site than any other internet site or medical contacts, and that was even before I signed on as a member.  Prior to beginning dialysis in Nov. 07, I felt like a strong person, and one with a high pain threshold.  Now I feel like a "wimp", especially at the center.  They seem to always be in a hurry and cannulating me slows them down, at times requiring 3 people before they get me on the machine.  Several times I've had 3 and even 4 needles inserted before getting my treatment started.  The dialysis staff would be happy if I had a catheter and pressured me to see my surgeon for transposition surgery and a catheter.  I did go to see him a couple weeks ago, but he believes my fistula is big enough and strong enough, just a little deep on one end and didn't think more surgery was needed.  He sent a note back to the center with just basic cannulation instructions, and recommending their best tech do my needles (which we know is impossible because of scheduling).  I heard them laughing about it.  One tech (the first one to infiltrate me in both lines, and who I asked not to cannulate me after that) told me in so many words that my surgeon doesn't know anything about the dialysis process like the techs do.  My neph seemed to agree with the surgeon, and I believe sent me for the appt because of pressure from the dialysis center.  Sometimes I feel caught in the middle and I'm not a confrontational person.  However, I read on this site about how it was OK to not let a tech work on me, and now feel like I'm beginning to stand up for myself a little more, thanks to the IHD site and all it's members. 

[paris]

Power--that's is what IHD has given me.  In years past, I just did what a doctor told me.  Now, I question everything, research and learn all I can and know there are times I know more than those treating me.   The more I learn from my friends here, the more powerful I become.    Cincy, so glad you are here. You fit right in!

[KT0930]

Cincy, I'm so sorry you're having to feel like the go-between among all those different opinions. I am glad you found IHD. I can't help you with the hemo stuff, but there are lots on here who can. Keep your head up and keep coming here for advice and support!

[Bajanne]

Thank you too for sharing that with us.  These are the kinds of things that we on haemodialysis have to contend with sometimes.  But if there is one thing that this site has taught me, is that we can stand up for ourselves.  And if you feel too weak to do that, call on our Superhero Kitkatz - the one with the big stick! (JK)

[boxman55]

Cincy, you are the boss at dialysis and don't let anyone there tell you different. If you don't want a tech sticking you then tell the head nurse in private or yell it from the tree tops. it is you who knows what is good for you, if your dry weight is to high or low let em know. if the sun is in your eyes tell someone. Don't let them push you around and if they talk about you behind your back tough sh** at least they will know you mean business...Boxman

[petey]

Amen, Brother Boxman! 

[kitkatz]

Do NOT let the dialysis center feed you that line of crap!  They work for you. You are the client and they should do their best for you!  I am getting out the big stick now!

You tell them to stick you as your surgeon said to or you will report them to him!

[Sluff]

You are in charge when it comes to your medical care.