What renal patients should ask their doctors

from http://www.nephronline.org/

What renal patients should ask their doctors

   Most people will be quite shocked and upset to discover that their kidneys are failing. However, the more you understand about your condition the less frightening it will become. Here are some points to consider and questions to ask your consultant.



It is always a good idea to write down your questions before you see the doctor so that you do not forget what you wanted to ask.

And don't try and find out everything on the first visit! You will not remember it all! Try to think about what you want to know now and what will wait.

Remember that the doctors and other health professionals are there for your benefit and expect to explain and answer questions. Do not worry that they may think your concerns trivial. They won't.

If you do not understand what you are told, say so -- and ask for further explanation.

Here are some questions you may wish to consider asking. Why not print out the list and mark those you want to ask at your next visit to see the doctor.
      Do you know the cause of my kidney disease?
      Will this cause my kidneys to fail?
      If so, when will this be? (Your doctor will only ever be able to give you a rough estimate.)
      Is there any treatment available to stop my kidneys from failing?
      If so, what would this consist of? And what are the potential side-effects and chances of success?

If you are told you will need dialysis (artificial kidney treatment) you should ask to be shown the different types and given an explanation of how they work. This may take between one to two hours, but it is time very well spent.

At this session consider asking the following.
      What kind of dialysis would suit me best?
      Can I choose which kind of dialysis I want?
      Is home haemodialysis, overnight haemodialysis or haemodialysis at a unit near my home available?
      Can I see the dialysis unit?
      Can you show me peritoneal dialysis including the dialysis tube?
      Is automated (night-time) peritoneal dialysis available?
      What are the potential complications of both types of dialysis?
      Am I suitable for a kidney transplant?
      Can someone in my family donate a kidney to me?
      Is it possible for me to have a kidney transplant before starting dialysis?
      What is the success rate for kidney transplants?
      Can I have some written information to take home?

The following are some general questions you may wish to ask.
      Is there a social worker and or counsellor available for support?
      Is there a local kidney patients' association I can contact?
      What is my life expectancy?

Some people do not want to think about this last question, which is quite understandable. And remember, any answer to this question will be based purely on statistics. No doctor can accurately predict how long someone will live or what their quality of life will be. But remember, many kidney patients live a long and enjoyable life so think carefully about whether or not you feel you need to ask this question.