Review the discussion
The kidney care team records the care choices discussed with you and any questions that still need an answer.
Preparing safely
Areas your kidney care team may review
These assessments help you prepare in advance. Having them does not mean that you need to start dialysis immediately.
Vaccination review
Checking whether you are protected against infections that can be prevented by vaccination.
Learn more
The kidney care team may review your vaccination record and discuss vaccines such as hepatitis B, influenza, pneumococcal, or varicella vaccination according to your age, previous doses, health, immunity, and the local programme. Starting hepatitis B vaccination before dialysis may allow more time to build protection.
The vaccines you need and their timing are based on your individual needs. People preparing for transplantation may need a specific plan before anti-rejection medicines are started.
Nutrition assessment
Reviewing your appetite, weight, strength and usual eating habits.
Learn more
The kidney care team may ask about weight loss, poor appetite, nausea, swelling, and the foods you usually eat. A renal dietitian or trained nutrition professional may provide advice based on your blood results, symptoms, urine output, and treatment plan.
There is no single kidney diet for everyone. Do not make severe food or fluid restrictions unless your kidney care team advises them.
Heart health assessment
Checking whether your heart health or circulation needs further assessment.
Learn more
The kidney care team reviews your blood pressure, medical history, activity level, and symptoms such as chest discomfort, breathlessness, or reduced exercise ability. An ECG, echocardiogram, or another heart test may be arranged when clinically needed.
Not every person needs every heart test. The assessment is selected according to symptoms, medical history, and the treatment being considered.
Referral for an AV fistula if needed
Preparing reliable access to your bloodstream if haemodialysis may be needed in the future.
Learn more
The kidney care team may examine the blood vessels in your arms, arrange vessel mapping, and refer you to a surgeon. A fistula joins an artery and a vein, usually in the arm, and needs time to develop and become ready before it can be used.
A fistula is not arranged for everyone. Referral depends on the agreed care plan, the likelihood and timing of haemodialysis, your blood vessels, and your overall health.
What is an AV fistula?Depending on your care plan
Your pathway may continue in different ways
The kidney care team will explain which preparation is relevant to you.
Transplant
Referral for transplant assessment and discussion of living or deceased donor pathways.
Peritoneal dialysis
Assessment for a PD catheter, followed by training in CAPD or APD if suitable and available.
Haemodialysis
Planning a fistula or another appropriate dialysis access and discussing centre treatment.
Conservative care
Ongoing kidney care focused on symptoms, nutrition, medicines, daily function, and quality of life.
After your counselling session
You can contact your kidney care team.
Contact numbers will be provided after your counselling session. You can use them to ask questions, discuss your treatment options, or share any concerns before making a decision.
Weekdays, 12 noon–2 pm
Speak with the kidney care team in your preferred language.
The plan can be reviewed.
AKCC follow-up continues after counselling. Your team may revisit the plan when your kidney function, health, family circumstances, or preferences change.