Home Dialysis and Coronavirus (COVID-19): Staying Safe

With the COVID-19 situation, it’s important to stock up on the kidney-friendly food, medications, and medical supplies you need. Make sure you have enough supplies to last you 2–4 weeks. Because avoiding contact with other people who may be carrying the virus is key, it’s also best to get items sent directly to your home so you can avoid going out. You may want to consider:

• Prescription and medical supply delivery
• Online grocery delivery
• Friends or family shopping for you and dropping off items on your doorstep

TIP: Ask your dietitian for recommendations on kidney-friendly foods and fluids that keep well on the shelf. Some items to keep on hand may include:

• Canned fruit—pears, peaches, pineapple, or mixed fruit
• Canned low- or no-salt vegetables—carrots, green beans, peas, or corn
• Canned low- or no-salt meats—tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey
• All-natural nut butter
• Jelly or honey
• Bread and cereal
• Canned evaporated milk, boxed nut milk, or boxed rice milk

Telehealth is virtual healthcare, with care team appointments that take place over the phone or computer. These virtual visits can help you continue to get the best care and attention possible, while helping you stay safe during COVID-19. Your care team might use telehealth for regular checkups, nephrologist visits, or appointments with your dietitian or social worker.

To get started, you'll need:

• A plugged-in or fully charged, internet-enabled device with a camera—such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer
• A high-speed internet connection—like DSL, a cable modem, Wi-Fi, or an unlimited data plan
• A quiet, private, well-lit area for the visit

The COVID-19 situation is still relatively new—and many people are dealing with a mix of emotions from day to day. If you’re feeling anxious, depressed, or worried, you are not alone. The new routines you’re following to help protect your health can change things—including your daily schedule, your work life, your usual habits and hobbies, and your emotional wellbeing. To help manage anxiety and stress, consider these tips:

• Keep up with your normal routine—this includes staying on schedule with dialysis and keeping up with care team appointments. Completing your full dialysis treatment will help you stay your healthiest and feel your best.
• Think about limiting coronavirus news coverage—COVID-19 is online, on TV, and in our daily interactions. It’s very easy to get overwhelmed by all of the information and opinions. Staying informed is good, though being surrounded by stressful news can also affect your emotions. Consider limiting the amount of news you read or watch.
• Recognize symptoms of anxiety or depression—everyone copes with stress a little differently. Noticing the signs and symptoms—constant worry, headache, nausea, or tiredness—can be a sign to seek stress relief.
• Find ways to cope that work for you—taking good care of your wellbeing means dealing effectively with stress or anxiety. To manage your mental and emotional health, try simple steps like stepping outside for some fresh air, calling a friend, getting some exercise, or making time to read a good book.