The Pediatric Hemodialysis Unit (3E) provides hemodialysis treatment to children and youth from 0 through 17 years of age.
It is the only dedicated pediatric hemodialysis program in south-central Ontario, also serving parts of Western Ontario.
Care We Provide
- Dialysis treatment
- Patient and family education
- Patient and family support
Referral Process
Patients are admitted following an incident causing kidney failure or if they have end stage kidney disease. Admission to the Hemodialysis Program follows admission to McMaster Children’s Hospital and consultation with a nephrologist (doctor specializing in care related to the kidneys).
What to Expect
You are welcome to bring personal items for your child, such as a favourite toy. Other items including books, activities, and music are available on the unit.
Make sure your child eats and drinks before you arrive for treatment are there is no eating allowed during treatment. Please bring your child’s favourite clear fluid drinks.
Please ensure that your child wears a top that buttons in the front for easy access to the catheter.
Family-Centered Care
We encourage you to take part in your child’s care and to tell the team if you have any questions, concerns, or notice any changes in your child’s condition.
It is important that you are on time for appointments. If an emergency or bad weather prevents you from coming to hemodialysis please call and let the nurse know as early as possible. The doctor will determine when your child’s next treatment will be and if they need any medications while waiting for the next treatment.
If your child is in school, tell the school staff of your child’s dialysis schedule. It can be helpful to provide them with information about the hemodialysis catheter and its care. The team would be happy to provide you with information if you wish.
Team Members
Pediatric Nephrologist: doctor who specializes in the care of children with kidney disease
Pediatric hemodialysis nurse: Registered Nurse with special training in caring for children receiving hemodialysis
Pediatric Nephrology clinic nurse: Registered Nurse with special knowledge of caring for children receiving hemodialysis
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call for help?
- If there is redness, swelling, drainage, or pain at the catheter site
- If your child has a fever above 38 degrees Celcius
- If you have concerns about your child’s blood pressure
Who do I call for help?
- On treatment days call the hemodialysis nurse at 905-521-2100 ext 73888
- On non-treatment daysduring business hours call the nephrology nurse atext 73855 OR page the hemodialysis nurse atnd ask for pager 1280.
- After hours and emergencies call and ask for the pediatric nephrologist on call
