Hemodialysis: How to Prepare Before Your Treatment Day

Hemodialysis is a vital treatment for patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease, when the kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste or regulate the body’s fluid balance. Hemodialysis works by using a dialysis machine to perform the function of the kidneys, removing waste products, toxins, and excess fluid from the blood efficiently.

However, to ensure safe treatment and achieve the best possible outcomes, proper preparation before dialysis is essential. This includes physical readiness, appropriate nutrition, and proper care of the vascular access site. This article provides comprehensive information for patients and their families.

What Is Hemodialysis? Why Is It Necessary?

Hemodialysis is a medical procedure in which blood is removed from the body through a blood vessel and passed through a dialysis machine to filter out waste and excess fluids. The cleaned blood is then returned safely back into the body.

Hemodialysis becomes necessary when the kidneys can no longer function adequately on their own. It helps replace the essential filtering role of the kidneys, preventing the buildup of toxins and maintaining proper fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.

In general, patients need hemodialysis 2–3 times per week, with each session lasting approximately 3–4 hours, depending on kidney function, body weight, and the physician’s assessment.

When kidney function declines significantly, patients may experience symptoms such as:

• Swelling in different parts of the body

• Fatigue and shortness of breath

• Nausea and loss of appetite

• High blood pressure that is difficult to control

Hemodialysis helps manage these symptoms, prolongs life, and supports patients in maintaining the best possible quality of life.

How to Prepare for Hemodialysis

Proper preparation before hemodialysis helps reduce the risk of complications such as low blood pressure, muscle cramps, and fluid overload.

1. Manage Underlying Conditions Consistently

Most patients with kidney disease have underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Taking prescribed medications regularly and following medical advice strictly helps prepare the body for dialysis and reduces risks during the procedure.

2. Control Fluid and Dietary Intake

One of the most important aspects of dialysis preparation is limiting fluid intake as recommended by your doctor. Excess fluid buildup can put extra strain on the heart.

Patients should also avoid foods high in potassium and phosphorus, such as:

• Bananas and coconut water

• Organ meats

• Processed and high-sodium foods

Proper dietary control helps improve the effectiveness of hemodialysis.

3. Proper Care of Vascular Access or Catheter

Hemodialysis patients typically have one of two types of vascular access:

• An AV fistula in the arm

• A chest catheter

Avoid putting pressure on the access site, lifting heavy objects, or measuring blood pressure on the arm with the fistula. Always keep the area clean. If you notice swelling, redness, or pain, inform your healthcare provider immediately

4. Get Adequate Rest

Getting at least 6–8 hours of sleep before your dialysis session helps the body adjust better and reduces fatigue during and after treatment.

What Should You Be Careful About During Hemodialysis?

During hemodialysis, patients should be aware of possible symptoms and follow medical guidance closely to ensure safety and comfort.

Things to watch for include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Muscle cramps

• Nausea or vomiting

• Chest discomfort or shortness of breath

If any unusual symptoms occur during the session, inform the nurse or medical staff immediately. Remaining still, avoiding sudden movements, and following staff instructions will help ensure a smooth and safe dialysis

How to Care for Yourself After Hemodialysis

Proper self-care after hemodialysis helps your body recover and reduces the risk of complications.

After your session, you should:

• Rest adequately if you feel tired or weak

• Monitor the access site for any bleeding, swelling, or pain

• Follow fluid and dietary restrictions as advised by your doctor

• Take prescribed medications consistently

If you experience unusual symptoms such as severe dizziness, persistent bleeding from the access site, chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.

Taking good care of yourself after dialysis supports recovery and helps maintain your overall health and quality of life.

How to Choose a Hemodialysis Center

When choosing a dialysis clinic or center, you should consider the following:

• Safety standards

• Infection control measures

• Specialized doctors and dialysis nurses

• Modern, certified dialysis machines

Selecting a facility that meets recognized standards helps ensure safe, effective, and consistent long-term

Standardized Hemodialysis at Pattaya Dialysis

Pattaya Dialysis (Pattaya Dialysis Clinic) provides hemodialysis services in accordance with the standards of the Nephrology Society of Thailand. Our center is staffed by experienced nephrologists and specialized dialysis nurses dedicated to kidney care.

We prioritize cleanliness, safety, and close patient monitoring at every step of the treatment process to ensure confidence in the quality of care and to support a consistently good quality of life. We also accept government healthcare benefits, including Social Security and the Universal Coverage Scheme (Gold Card), allowing eligible patients to receive renal replacement therapy at no cost.

Because dialysis is not just a treatment — it is long-term, attentive care for life.

For more information about hemodialysis or to schedule an appointment, please contact Pattaya Dialysis Clinic. ( Open daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM )

📞 Tel. 082-657-7699

📞 Tel. 081-687-6346