Dialysis

Did you know that roughly 555,000 people in the U.S. are currently receiving dialysis treatment? For patients already utilizing the services provided at a skilled nursing facility, onsite dialysis can make this process a whole lot easier.

Who Needs Dialysis Treatment? 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, dialysis is for patients whose kidneys are no longer functioning properly. In people with healthy kidneys, the kidneys remove excess fluids and waste products from the blood. Most patients requiring dialysis are patients with either late-stage kidney disease or people with end-stage kidney disease (also known as kidney failure).

In end-stage kidney disease, kidney function is down to 15% or less of the normal rate. At this stage, you either need a kidney transplant (and usually dialysis while you wait), or you will have to have dialysis treatments for the rest of your life.

Are There Different Types of Dialysis Treatments?

There are two main types of dialysis treatment:

  • Hemodialysis: Hemodialysis is done by placing an IV that will be used to transfer your blood through a dialyzer (artificial kidney). The blood is then put back into your body through another IV. This is the most common treatment option for receiving dialysis.
  • Peritoneal dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis is when a catheter is surgically placed inside the abdomen so that the abdomen (peritoneum) can be used to filter blood. After the catheter is placed, the patient will then be taught their chosen technique for adding a dialysis solution (dialysate) and how to drain it.

Can You Require Dialysis Without Having Kidney Disease?

While less common, people who have experienced damage to the kidneys (commonly referred to as acute kidney injury) may also require dialysis, in severe cases.

According to the Mayo Clinic, acute kidney injuries tend to be caused by one of the following:

  • An underlying condition that inhibits proper blood flow to the kidneys.
  • A blockage in the ureters (tubes in the kidneys that drain urine).
  • Some type of physical damage to the kidneys.

What Is Onsite Dialysis?

Onsite dialysis is when a patient receives their dialysis treatment at a skilled nursing facility. Generally, onsite dialysis is meant to accommodate residents staying at a skilled nursing facility that also require dialysis treatments.

Who Benefits From Onsite Dialysis?

Receiving dialysis treatment on site of the skilled nursing facility a patient is staying at provides their families with peace of mind that their loved ones are receiving their necessary treatments and care.

In-house dialysis also provides the patient’s themselves with the following benefits:

  • No commuting stress.
  • Receiving dialysis treatment somewhere familiar and comfortable.
  • Superior care coordination.
  • Better continuation of care.

Is Onsite Dialysis as Safe as Going to a Dialysis Center?

Yes. While being on dialysis increases your risk of certain infection(s), the location you receive dialysis does not affect this risk.

Who Administers Dialysis Treatments?

Dialysis treatments are administered by trained dialysis nurses.

How Often Will Dialysis Treatment Take Place?

This depends on the type of dialysis treatment you receive and the extent of the damage to your kidneys. In general, hemodialysis received in a skilled nursing facility will take place three to four times a week, with each treatment taking between three to four hours.

Can I Transfer My Loved One to Monument Health for Dialysis Care?

Of course! Contact Monument Health to find out more about how to transfer to a Monument Health location for dialysis care.

Receiving onsite dialysis treatments can save patients a lot of time and stress, while providing them with the care they need. At Monument Health, we strive to provide our patients with the best quality of life possible. This is why we are proud to offer onsite dialysis to our patients at certain locations.

Sources:

Acute kidney injury. (2024).

Diagnosis. (2024).

Dialysis. (2025).

2024 USRDS Annual Data Report: Epidemiology of kidney disease in the United States. (2024).