I think it might be helpful to invite patients to visit the center and, if they want, view a patient being put on and taken off, if the patient in center doesn't mind. I think the scariest thing is not knowing what to expect.I would also like to see the employees of centers get some sensitivity training. They aren't just sticking a patient. Beginning dialysis is a huge change in the patient's life. They are changing how they live. It can be overwhelming, scary and depressing. Tech's, nurses, social workers, nutritionists, doctors and even the receptionist need to learn how to be supportive and respectful and professional. Eating and drinking when the patient can't, ignoring requests, belittling symptoms and a basic disregard for the individual needs of each patient should not be tolerated.
YES! Name tags and introductions would be great! One time I told the charge nurse "The tech with the long straight hair is NEVER to put Jenna on again (twice she ignored our request to adjust the fluid removal.) I didn't know her name.