2.Talk to your social worker about transportation problems or financial difficulties. Medicare and Medicaid cover 100 percent of the cost of dialysis, plus transportation and even a phone line if you need it, in case a transplant call comes through for you.
3.Prepare for a fistula to be surgically inserted into your forearm. Refuse to let anyone take your blood pressure or draw your lab work from the arm that contains your fistula once it has been inserted.
4.Follow a renal diet. (See "How to Eat While On Dialysis.") Restrict your fluid intake. In many cases, this means no more than 1,000 cc or one quart of liquid a day.
5.Avoid all potassium, and take as many as five Tums a day to help increase your phosphorus and calcium levels. Check with your doctor first, though.
6.Prepare yourself for monthly blood work. You'll also have a series of four to six vaccinations against hepatitis B.
7.Check your fistula site every day. Place your hand above and below your fistula to feel a fluttery movement, called a thrill. If you don't feel movement, call your dialysis center.
8.Avoid lifting anything heavier than 25 pounds.
Learn about Can I Stop Dialysis with Kidney Failure
