Roodepoorts new dialysis centre

Dialysis is a medical treatment required by individuals in the end stages of kidney failure. At the point where dialysis is needed, the kidneys would have lost about 85 per cent or more of their functionality. When the kidneys have failed, dialysis is used to keep the body in balance by performing the kidneys’ general functions of removing and preventing a build-up of waste, salt and extra water in the body, keeping a safe level of potassium and other chemicals in your blood, and helping to control blood pressure.

A new dialysis centre was opened at the Kruinpark Retirement Village on Saturday, 7 September. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, as well as beds and an isolation room for patients who have contagious diseases. There is also a waiting room with DSTV and a coffee station to be used by the patients who are waiting for their treatment, or by family and friends waiting for their loved ones.

Kidney failure is not always permanent; in some kinds of acute kidney failure, the condition can be treated and cured, but in chronic or end-stage kidney failure, dialysis is needed for the rest of a person’s life. This is why the staff at the centre made sure to make the area as comfortable and welcoming as possible.

Patients will typically be spending about 12 hours a week in treatment (in three four-hour sessions) so the staff wanted to make the centre bright and comforting. Thabani Gumede, the Nephrology Clinical Technician in the unit, said that depending on the need for it, the centre is looking to introduce overnight treatments (lasting six hours).

While the dialysis centre is situated in a retirement village, it is not only open to residents there. The centre is open to the public and individuals of all ages. An educational programme is also in the works for this centre to make the community aware of kidney failure and how to prevent and treat it.

To find out more about the centre call:

Anton Groeneveld – General Manager Frail Care: 082 578 3852

Thabani Gumede – Nephrology Clinical Technician: 076 883 0945

Delaine van Zyl – General Manager Renal Care: 082 787 6955