Skip to main content

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Learn all you can and be open about how you’re feeling.  Get copies of your tests (blood work, urinalysis, ultrasound, x-rays, etc.) and understand what the results mean.  That way you can fully participate in the decisions that need to be made about your care.

Some people find that keeping a health diary is useful to record their medications, allergies, blood pressure, and other important measurements.  It can help you keep track of changes and chart how you’re feeling on any given day.

You may also find that setting personal goals is worthwhile.  Just be sure to be specific and realistic about your goals and share them with your loved ones so they can help you work toward them. Track your progress and reward yourself for your successes.  You can find some log sheets to help you do just that and forms to keep track of your contacts, appointments, health status, medications, exercise, emotional well-being, and action planning in our handbook Living with Reduced Kidney Function.

Your personal care plan is meant to help organize the support you need while you manage your chronic kidney disease.  Everyone’s experience is different, and a well-thought-out personal care plan can help make sure that your specific needs and goals are being met.