Your kidneys are essential for strengthening your bones, keeping your blood pressure healthy, removing waste, and creating red blood cells. Unfortunately, these organs can fail. Luckily, there are ways to improve functioning, including dialysis treatments. This solution cleans out your blood and other bodily fluids. To ensure the treatment is successful, it’s essential to prepare. Here’s what you need to know. 

4 Steps to Get Ready for Dialysis

1. Ask Questions

Dialysis appointments can be anxiety-provoking, especially for patients who don’t know what to expect. Before your first treatment, ask the doctor plenty of questions. For example, how will it affect your lifestyle? Will it be painful? How long will each appointment take? Finally, will the dialysis treatments be covered under my insurance? 

2. Arrange Transportation

If you’re nervous about the treatment, hire a transportation service to take you. They’ll get you there safely and keep you from driving while you’re distracted or stressed. Get to the medical facility early to ensure you have enough time to fill out paperwork and get blood work done, if necessary.

3. Eat a Light Meal

A few hours prior to the treatment, have a snack or meal. Avoid foods with potassium and sodium, and limit heavy options—such as meat—that will make you feel too full. Going with an empty stomach can leave you feeling uncomfortable while overeating can cause pain. 

4. Dress Properly

The medical staff will need access to the entry point, and they’ll take your blood pressure regularly. To make their jobs easier, wear loose-fitting clothing. Additionally, the treatment can cause you to feel cold, so wear warm pants, socks, and a sweater. Finally, bring along a pillow or blanket. 

When you need reliable transportation to a medical facility, contact Metro Luxury in the Bronx. Serving all of NYC, they specialize in taking clients to chemotherapy and dialysis treatments. Their drivers are available 24/7 and navigate the roads safely and carefully to prevent nausea. To learn more about their services, call (718) 665-4900 or visit their website.