Important information on coronavirus (COVID-19) and your health
Protecting your health in our dialysis centers
We are taking significant steps to reduce the chance of transmission of coronavirus in our centers. These steps include:
- All individuals entering the center are screened for fever and cough, as well as for potential coronavirus contact risk.
- Strict handwashing on entering and leaving the center will be firmly enforced.
- Visitors in our centers are not permitted in order to minimize the risk to our patients and employees.
- All patients will receive masks to wear while in the center waiting room and treatment area.
- All staff members will wear masks, full protective gowns, and gloves while in contact with patients in any area.
- Any individuals who develop fever, cough, or other symptoms of acute illness will receive their dialysis in a separate environment or be referred to a hospital.
- The center has been intensively disinfected, and this will be done on a daily and ongoing basis.
- While more laboratories are starting to test for coronavirus, testing kits are still not easily available. We are working very hard with local laboratories to get all individuals who have possible exposures tested as soon as possible.
CORONAVIRUS AND HOME DIALYSIS
4 steps you can take to stay safe
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that people with underlying medical conditions— including people with chronic kidney disease or on dialysis, people with diabetes, and people ages 65 and older—are at high risk for severe illness from coronavirus.
Following these simple steps can limit your exposure to coronavirus infection:
- Stay home as much as possible
The best way to stay safe is to avoid being around people who are sick with coronavirus or carrying coronavirus and not showing any symptoms. If you must go out for dialysis or medical appointments, follow the guidelines for social distancing and stay at least 6 feet away from other people at all times. - Wash your hands often
Use soap and water, and wash for a minimum of 20–30 seconds—or 1 minute if you’re doing home dialysis treatment. If soap isn’t available, use a hand sanitizer that’s at least 60% alcohol.
GET HELPFUL TIPS FOR HANDWASHING - Stock up on medications, food, and supplies
Make sure you have enough medications, kidney-friendly food, and medical supplies to last you 2–4 weeks. It’s best to have these items delivered to your home so you can avoid going out. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you get what you need. - Get support when you need it
Coronavirus is still very new and we’re all learning how to cope with the changes it’s bringing. If you need help at any time, please reach out to your social worker or another care team member to get the answers or assistance you need. We are here for you!
LEARN HOW YOUR SOCIAL WORKER CAN HELP
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU ARE SICK
REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR HANDS:
- Every time you blow your nose, cough, or sneeze
- After you use the restroom
- Before you eat or prepare food
- After contact with pets
- Before and after caring for another person
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Get the facts about coronavirus
How do you get coronavirus?
Coronavirus is spread between people who are within about 6 feet of each other. The virus is spread mainly through the droplets that leave an infected person’s body when coughing or sneezing. Others get exposed to the virus when they come in contact with the infected droplets via the mouth, nose, or eyes.
What can I do to avoid getting coronavirus?
- Clean frequently touched surfaces with disinfectant cleaners. Surfaces include tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- Wash your hands often, for at least 20-30 seconds, using soap and warm water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes—especially when your hands are not clean.
What should I do if I feel sick with a respiratory illness?
Talk to your care team immediately if you are feeling sick. If you are running a fever, you may be contagious. For a fever over 100.0° F, signs of a fever, or shortness of breath, call your physician.
Our first priority is to ensure your safety and wellbeing. When you arrive at the dialysis center, regardless if you are showing signs or symptoms of respiratory illness or fever, you will be asked to put on a face mask in the lobby. Our care team will ask you questions to evaluate your condition before bringing you to the dialysis treatment area.