September 06, 2017
Before the Appointment
- What type of physical examination(s) will be done?
- What type of clothing should I wear?
- Will a urine sample be needed at the beginning of my appointment?
- Where should I park for the office/department?
During the Appointment
- A list of symptoms and how long you have had those symptoms
- A list of all of your current doctors with contact information
- An updated list of medications
- Current insurance cards
- Your medical history
- A surgery list
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Questions You Can Ask
- Why have I been referred to a nephrologist?
- What is the reason my kidneys are not working properly?
- What stage of kidney disease am I in and what does that mean?
- How rapidly is my kidney function declining?
- What can I do to slow, delay or reverse the decline in my kidney function?
- What are my options for treatment and how do I learn about these options?
- What are the side effects of each treatment option?
- Who should I call with new problems or questions?
- Are there any special diet guidelines that I should follow?
- Do I need to make other lifestyle changes?
After the Appointment
You’ve made one of the first steps in the process to understanding your kidneys and kidney disease. Education is the next very important step. Contact NKF Cares Helpline (1.855.653.2273 or nkfcares@kidney.org) to receive free information, tools, and resources for protecting your kidney function, diet and lifestyle changes and your treatment options. Educate yourself about your options because you do have options. Make the choice that is best for you, your lifestyle and your future goals. These decisions should include a team of people such as trusted friends, family and your new nephrologist.