Disaster and emergency

If you are in the middle of a dialysis session during an emergency, refer to the emergency evacuation information on your dialysis unit. Healthcare professionals on site will also help you as quickly as they can.

Tip: If you have not seen this emergency evacuation information before, be sure to ask next time you go for treatment.

In the case that your haemodialysis dialysis schedule is disrupted until further notice, your healthcare team will advise on what options may be available and best for you (using a different unit or running shorter sessions, for example).

Tip: Write down the contact details of different dialysis centres in your neighbourhood. You might find our Dialysis Unit Guide useful.

It’s important to keep a reliable inventory of supplies so you can safely continue peritoneal dialysis if your water and electricity services are cut off. You should also know exactly how to inspect and operate equipment, and keep batteries powered as much as possible.

Tip: Audit what you have and purchase at least two weeks’ worth of supplies in advance. Also ask your healthcare team for a full briefing on how to use, exchange and stop peritoneal dialysis in case of emergency.

If dialysis becomes impossible, you must follow a strict meal plan. This plan controls certain minerals and nutrients in your diet (such as sodium), as well as fluid quantities, that will severely impact your health if you are not on your usual dialysis routine. Tip: Ask your health professional to prescribe an emergency meal plan for you today.

In an emergency, you may need to manage your medications, fluids and diet carefully.

Do not stop taking your medications as there are risks associated with this. Ensure you always have adequate supply.

It is also important that you keep drinking fresh water. Keep bottled water handy in case of an emergency.

Stick to transplant friendly foods and try to eat healthy. Takeaway foods often have a lot of salt, sugar and fat. Transplant Australia have some useful tips about kidney friendly foods.

Ensure you contact your health care team if you know you are getting sick or are facing issues with medication. If your illness is treated quickly your risk of damaging your transplant is reduced.