Frequently Asked Questions

Dialysis Time

Question: Do I get a permanent schedule for my weekly dialysis sessions?

Answer: When you begin dialysis, you will be assigned a permanent time slot for your weekly dialysis sessions based on your preference. You will be assigned a permanent fixed starting time on the First shift (morning), Second shift (afternoon) or Third shift (evening) based on your preference. 

Question: I am employed. Can I still be able to go for dialysis?

Answer: If you are employed, we will assign you a time that allows you to maintain your employment.

Question: I have a special event to attend like a birthday celebration or company dinner that clashes with my fixed date and time slot for dialysis.

Answer: If you have an occasional special event that coincides with your appointment time, we will try to accommodate you by allocating another time slot.

Dialysis Care Team

Question: Who are the people who will be attending to me at the dialysis centre?

Answer: Your direct care staff will be composed of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses by Singapore Nursing Board. All staff have been highly trained in dialysis nursing and care.

Question: Will I be assigned a fixed direct care staff or I will be assigned to whoever is on duty at that time?

Answer: You will be assigned a primary direct care staff person. This staff person is responsible for meeting with you monthly and  providing a verbal and written report on your

• monthly blood test values
• management of your vascular access
• providing dialysis education such as potassium and phosphorus control; fluid control; sodium control; albumin; and coordinating medical diets.

Communicating with Doctor (Nephrologist)

Question: How often is a Doctor in attendance at the dialysis centre to attend to me?

Answer: A Doctor (Nephrologist) makes the rounds during your session at least once a month. There are a number of ways you can get information, a question, or a request to your nephrologist. You can tell the staff person putting you on the dialysis machine that you would like to talk with the doctor.

Dialysis Daily and Monthly Routine

Question: What are the daily procedures each time I visit the dialysis centre for dialysis?

Answer:

• You will be weighed before and after each dialysis treatment. You will be asked to wash your hands and Vascular access arm before and after each treatment.
• Your blood pressure will be taken before, after, and during your treatments.
• You will have blood drawn during dialysis the first week of the month every 2 months. The results of these blood tests will be shared with you by the primary care staff individual assigned to you. Any abnormal lab values, needs, or problems you have will be reviewed at monthly clinical monthly meeting. Any changes in your care plan made by the doctor will then be explained to you.