A diagnosis requiring dialysis can feel overwhelming. Your mind is likely filled with questions, and your heart with a mix of uncertainty and anxiety. This is completely normal. At Healing Hands: Center for Renal Dialysis here in Cebu, we understand that your journey to wellness begins not just with medical treatment, but with peace of mind.
We believe your care should be a partnership. Your first dialysis session is a significant step, and our goal is to make it as clear, calm, and comfortable as possible. This isn’t just a procedure; it’s the beginning of a new routine, and we are here to guide you through every moment.
Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to what you can expect during your first visit to our center.
Step 1: Before You Arrive
Preparation can help you feel more in control. On the day of your treatment, we recommend you:
- Eat a healthy meal: A good breakfast or lunch is important, but try to avoid foods high in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. A protein-rich meal is often a great choice.
- Wear comfortable clothing: You will be relaxing in a comfortable chair for a few hours. Loose-fitting clothes with sleeves that can be easily rolled up are ideal. We also suggest dressing in layers, as some patients feel cool during treatment.
- Bring a small bag: Pack a book, headphones for music or podcasts, or a tablet to help pass the time. We want you to feel at home.
Step 2: A Warm Welcome at Healing Hands
From the moment you walk through our doors in Cebu, our focus is on you. You won’t find a cold, clinical waiting room. Instead, you’ll be greeted by name by our friendly staff. We’ll get you checked in, answer any immediate questions, and offer the warm Cebuano hospitality you deserve.
Step 3: Getting Settled and Comfortable
Your dedicated nurse for the day will personally guide you to your station. This is your space. Before we begin, we take a moment to connect and prepare:
- Weighing In: We will take your weight to determine how much fluid needs to be removed during the session.
- Checking Vitals: Your nurse will check your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature.
- Getting Comfortable: We’ll help you settle into your specialized treatment chair. We have pillows and warm blankets ready to ensure you are cozy. Your nurse will explain everything before they do it—no surprises, just clear communication.
Step 4: The Connection Process: Gentle and Expert Care
For many, this is the most intimidating part. Our highly trained nurses specialize in making this process as smooth and painless as possible.
Using your dialysis access (whether it’s a fistula or graft), your nurse will expertly and gently insert two small needles. The entire process is done with the highest standards of sterilization and care. One needle draws your blood to the dialysis machine, and the other returns the newly cleaned blood to your body. We will talk you through it, ensuring you are at ease.
Step 5: During Your Session: Rest and Attentive Monitoring
Once you are connected to the dialysis machine, your job is simply to relax. The machine will quietly do its work of cleaning your blood, a process that usually takes about four hours. During this time:
- You are never alone. Our nursing team is constantly monitoring you and the machine, ensuring everything is running perfectly.
- Your comfort is key. Read your book, watch a movie on your device, listen to music, or simply take a nap.
- We are here for you. If you feel any discomfort, need another blanket, or just want to chat, your nurse is right there. This is a core part of the Healing Hands difference.
Step 6: After Your Session: Finishing Up and Feeling Better
When your treatment is complete, your nurse will gently disconnect you and apply small bandages to the access site. We will check your vitals and weight one last time. You might feel a little tired, which is normal, but many patients also report feeling much better and less “foggy” as toxins and excess fluid have been removed.
We will help you schedule your next appointment and provide any simple post-treatment instructions before you head home.
The Healing Hands Promise: You Are More Than a Patient
Choosing a dialysis center in Cebu is a major decision. Our commitment to being people-centric means we focus on what other centers might overlook: your emotional well-being, your comfort, and your understanding of the process. We intentionally maintain an environment where our nurses have the time to dedicate to you.
Your first dialysis session is just one step on a longer path, but you don’t have to walk it alone.
Ready to take the next step?
If you or a loved one are preparing for dialysis, we invite you to call us. Let’s talk. We can schedule a tour of our Cebu facility so you can see our commitment to quality care for yourself.
Contact Healing Hands: Center for Renal Dialysis today at 0991 206 0990 or visit us at 2nd Floor South Town Center, N. Bacalso Rd, Bulacao, Talisay City, Cebu City