WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What do I need to know about hemodialysis for acute kidney failure? Hemodialysis is a procedure that uses a machine to do the job of your kidneys. The machine pumps your blood through a dialyzer, or artificial kidney. The dialyzer filters fluid, salts, and waste from your blood. Once they are removed, clean blood from the dialyzer returns to your body through a vein. Acute kidney failure happens when your kidneys suddenly stop working. Failure happens quickly, within hours or days. What needs to be done before hemodialysis? Your weight, temperature, pulse, and blood pressure will be checked. A central venous catheter will be placed into a vein in your arm, chest, or groin. The catheter will be hooked up to the machine and dialysis will start. What happens after hemodialysis? You may need to rest in the hospital so your healthcare provider can monitor your condition. You may need more hemodialysis sessions. People who get regular dialysis usually have it 3 times each week in a hemodialysis center. If you need long-term dialysis, you may need surgery to make an arteriovenous fistula or arteriovenous graft. Ask your healthcare provider for more information about an arteriovenous fistula or graft. |