• Create an Emergency Contact List:
  • Include your healthcare provider, local dialysis center, and emergency contacts.
  • Make sure everyone in your household knows how to reach your doctor or healthcare team in case of a disruption.
• Develop an Emergency Medical Plan:
  • Work with your healthcare provider to develop a detailed plan outlining what to do if you cannot access dialysis or other critical services.
  • Include instructions for using home dialysis equipment if applicable.
  • Identify nearby dialysis centers that could help in case of an emergency.
• Prepare a Go-Bag:
  • Include necessary medications, medical records, treatment supplies, and a backup power source for medical equipment if needed.
  • Consider including your emergency meal plan for specific dietary needs.
• Ensure Backup Power:
  • If you’re dependent on electrical equipment (such as a dialysis machine or oxygen), have a backup power source, like a generator or portable power supply.
  • Check with your healthcare provider for recommendations on what kind of backup power you should have.
• Know the Evacuation Routes and Shelters:
  • Identify safe evacuation routes and shelters in case you need to leave your home quickly.
  • Ensure you know which shelters can accommodate people with medical needs, such as dialysis patients.
• Stay Informed:
  • Sign up for emergency alerts in your area for weather or disaster warnings.
  • Keep a battery-powered radio or access to a smartphone to receive updates, especially if power goes out.
• Communicate Your Plan:
  • Share your emergency plan with family members, neighbors, and others who may be able to help.
  • Ensure that someone knows where your emergency supplies are stored and how to contact your healthcare providers.

What to Do During an Emergency:

• If a disaster strikes and you are unable to reach your dialysis center, call ahead and ask for guidance.
• If power is lost, use your backup power or seek out local emergency resources for assistance.
• If evacuation is necessary, ensure that your medical supplies and equipment go with you.

Emergency Preparedness for Home Dialysis

• List of Dialysis Units:
  • Maintain a list of nearby dialysis units both at home and at work.
  • Ensure contact details are up to date for quick access during an emergency.
• Stock of Dialysis Supplies:
  • Keep a two-week supply of dialysis materials at both home and work.
  • Regularly check expiration dates of supplies and replace them when necessary.
• Register with Utility Companies:
  • Register with local water and power companies to notify them of your medical needs.
  • Request priority restoration of services in case of an outage.
• Self-Care During Emergencies:
  • Learn how to take yourself off the dialysis machine in case of an emergency or power failure.
  • Follow the home training staff’s instructions for stopping dialysis in case of an emergency.
• Backup Plan:
  • If unable to continue dialysis at home due to an emergency, contact your home training staff immediately.
  • Work with them to arrange alternate dialysis treatments or transport to a facility.