Call Now Today!
(830) 541-5372
- 108 S Upson Devine, TX 78016
- (830) 541-5372
- (830) 267-8110
- Reference #: 303492
(830) 541-5372
Home hemodialysis (HHD) is a treatment option for people with kidney failure that allows patients to perform dialysis from the comfort of their own home, rather than in a dialysis center. The treatment uses a machine to filter and clean the blood, mimicking the function of healthy kidneys.
Patients can schedule treatments at times that are convenient for them, rather than being bound to a center’s schedule.
Many home hemodialysis patients can perform dialysis more frequently (e.g., 5-6 times per week), leading to better overall health outcomes by more closely mimicking natural kidney function.
Being at home allows patients to dialyze in a familiar, comfortable environment.
Patients can take greater control of their care, with some able to perform dialysis independently, though many may need a partner’s help.
Home hemodialysis involves:
A patient needs a permanent access point to their bloodstream, usually through a fistula, graft, or catheter. This allows blood to flow into the dialysis machine for cleaning.
Blood is pumped from the patient’s body into the dialysis machine, where it passes through a dialyzer (artificial kidney) to remove waste products, extra fluid, and toxins. Clean blood is then returned to the body.
Medical professionals thoroughly train Patients and caregivers to safely perform dialysis at home. Training typically covers machine setup, needle insertion, monitoring blood pressure, managing complications, and cleaning/disinfecting the equipment.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Cras libero urna, aliquam eu leo vel, accumsan pretium elit.
Function: This is the primary piece of equipment that pumps blood from the patient’s body, filters it through a dialyzer, and returns clean blood to the patient.
Types: Smaller, portable dialysis machines are available for home use. These machines are more user-friendly, with digital displays, step-by-step instructions, and built-in safety features.
Function: A dialyzer acts as an artificial kidney. It contains a semipermeable membrane that filters out waste products, excess fluid, and toxins from the blood while retaining necessary nutrients.
Disposable Component: The dialyzer is typically replaced after each treatment or every few sessions, depending on the type used.
Needles (Dialysis Needles): Two large needles are inserted into the patient’s vascular access (fistula, graft, or catheter). One needle pulls blood from the body to the machine, while the other returns the cleaned blood.
Tubes: Bloodlines or tubing connect the needles to the dialysis machine and carry blood to and from the patient.
Access Care Supplies: Alcohol wipes, sterile gauze, and tape are used to clean and secure the access site to prevent infections.
Function: The dialysate is a specially formulated fluid used in the machine that helps remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. It contains electrolytes and minerals to help balance the body’s chemistry during dialysis.
Supply: Delivered in pre-packaged bags or created by mixing purified water with concentrates.
Function: Home hemodialysis requires highly purified water to mix with the dialysate. A water purification system, such as a reverse osmosis (RO) unit or deionization system, ensures that tap water is safe for use in dialysis.
Maintenance: Patients are trained to maintain and regularly clean the water system to prevent contamination.
Function: Patients must monitor their blood pressure before, during, and after dialysis sessions to ensure their body is responding well to treatment.
Usage: An automatic blood pressure monitor is commonly used to simplify the process, with readings recorded for healthcare providers.
Function: Patients weigh themselves before and after dialysis to measure the amount of fluid removed during the treatment. Monitoring weight helps prevent fluid overload and manage dry weight (ideal body weight without excess fluid).
Digital Scales: Most home programs provide a precise digital scale to track small weight changes.
Function: Heparin is an anticoagulant used during dialysis to prevent blood clots from forming in the dialysis machine and tubing.
Heparin Syringe or Pump: The medication can be administered manually with a syringe or via an automatic heparin pump integrated into the dialysis machine.
Function: Used to hang bags of saline or dialysate fluid for the dialysis machine. It ensures gravity-assisted fluid flow into the system when needed.
Dialysis Chair/Bed: Patients need a comfortable chair or bed where they can sit or recline during treatment. It should have access to electrical outlets and sufficient space for all the equipment.
Storage for Supplies: Storage space is needed to hold boxes of supplies like dialyzers, needles, syringes, gloves, and tubing that are delivered on a regular basis.
Home hemodialysis is suitable for:
Most home dialysis programs offer ongoing support, including 24/7 helplines, routine check-ins with healthcare providers, and delivery of necessary supplies. Regular follow-ups with nephrologists and dialysis nurses ensure patients remain healthy and comfortable.
Home hemodialysis provides greater flexibility and can improve quality of life, but it requires commitment, training, and the right setup at home. Many patients report feeling more energized and in control of their treatment compared to in-center hemodialysis.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.