Pre-dialysis
Choosing Dialysis: Which type is right?
Pre-dialysis care is a program for patients with kidney function impairment who may need dialysis or a kidney transplant in the future. The goal of pre-dialysis care is to slow the decline of kidney function and prepare patients for renal replacement therapy (RRT).
What happens during pre-dialysis care?
- A nephrologist (kidney specialist) and a team of professionals work with the patient to decide on the best treatment.
- The patient may be prescribed medications to treat complications like anemia, bone disease, and acidosis.
The patient may be given dietary guidelines to help slow the decline of kidney function.
The patient may be educated about dialysis and kidney transplantation options.
When is pre-dialysis care recommended?
- When a patient has a creatinine clearance of less than 15–20 ml/min
- When a patient has a decline in renal function
- When a patient is expected to start dialysis within 6–12 months
- When a patient has Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD)






