Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about dialysis:

1. Do I need or am I at risk of needing dialysis?
   
   
2. Can anything be done to prevent or delay my need for dialysis?
   
   
3. Is a kidney transplant or other treatment a possible alternative for me?
   
   
4. How do hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis compare? Which do you recommend for me?
   
   
5. How often will my dialysis take place, and how long will my sessions be?
   
   
6. Can my dialysis be done at home, or do I need to go to a dialysis center?
   
   
7. If I do my dialysis at home, what sort of training is needed? Is a helper necessary?
   
   
8. What changes in my diet and other habits does dialysis require?
   
   
9. Can I be employed and enjoy other activities while undergoing dialysis?
   
   
10. What sort of financial, transportation and emotional support is available for me?
    
    
11. What kind of testing do I need to monitor kidney function and effectiveness of dialysis, and how often?
    
    
12. Should I complete a living will and other such documents?
    
    
13. What are the chances that I could regain enough kidney function to survive without dialysis?