General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
When the team announces a need for kidney replacement therapy, the options should be explained. The patient and nephrologist prepare the decision together.
Kidney transplantation is an option requiring an assessment of feasibility. It does not end follow-up: treatment to prevent rejection remains necessary.
Haemodialysis filters blood through a machine. Peritoneal dialysis uses the abdominal lining, with fluid introduced through an abdominal catheter, at home.
These methods have different daily arrangements. Ask for a comparison of locations, training and assistance needed in your circumstances.
At stage 5, conservative care without dialysis or transplantation may also be discussed. This is active care centred on the person, rather than abandonment of care.
For the next discussion, write down your priorities and daily constraints. Ask which options are medically possible and what steps to prepare before choosing.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.