The Dialysis Patient Handbook of Information: A Guide to Living with Dialysis

by Steven Belcher

Overview

The Dialysis Patient Handbook of Information" by Steven Belcher is a comprehensive guide that serves as an indispensable resource for individuals undergoing dialysis treatment. With empathy and expertise, Belcher demystifies the complexities of renal care, empowering patients to take control of their health and well-being.

Covering every aspect of dialysis, from understanding kidney function to navigating dietary restrictions, this handbook offers clear explanations, practical tips, and invaluable insights. Belcher addresses common concerns such as managing fluid intake, monitoring blood pressure, and coping with potential side effects. Moreover, he provides guidance on the emotional challenges faced by dialysis patients and offers strategies for maintaining a positive mindset throughout their journey.

What sets "The Dialysis Patient Handbook of Information" apart is its emphasis on patient advocacy. Belcher encourages readers to become informed advocates for themselves by understanding medical terminology, asking meaningful questions during medical appointments, and actively participating in treatment decisions.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798855607703
Publisher:	Barnes & Noble Press
Publication date:	08/18/2023
Pages:	162
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.35(d)

About the Author

Writing a book to help patients with kidney failure was the last thing I thought I would be doing after sustaining a personal injury that ended my career. However, sitting down to research and create my thoughts has been challenging, but very rewarding. I wouldn't have ever imagined in 1985, when I entered the dialysis field as a dialysis technician, that I would one day be writing a book to assist a population of people affected by kidney disease—the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. This new role as an author is not taken lightly. As the saying goes, “To whom much is given, much will be required,” and I intend to educate and spread kidney disease awareness until my final days.

With that being said, I would like to thank God, the creator of the universe, for giving me the insight, intuition, and instructions to create and write this much-needed book.

This journey would not be possible if it weren't for Gladice Houston, the senior patient care technician who hired me for my first job in dialysis in 1985. Gladice, I was just a twenty-one-year-old kid, recently discharged from the United States Army four months before you hired me. I worked several odd jobs before attending a trade/technical school for medical assistant training, four months before applying at the Austin Diagnostic Clinic, as recommended by the school’s job placement department. You must have seen something in me that I didn't see in myself. I had never heard of kidney dialysis before applying at the Austin Diagnostic Clinic, and you gave me the opportunity—though I had no previous experience as a dialysis technician—to train there with you. I will never forget your warmth, compassion, and kindness during my interview, orientation, and employment. When my grandfather passed away during my dialysis technician orientation, you let me return to Washington, D.C. to attend my grandfather's funeral. In addition, you graciously let me return to continue my training. Then in November of that year, when my daughter was born, you treated me like one of your own children, giving me the time I needed to spend with my wife and newborn daughter. Gladice, if you had not given me the opportunity to train as a dialysis technician when I had many challenges going on in my life, I don’t know where I would be right now. I am truly indebted to you. Thank you.

Editorial Reviews

"The Dialysis Patient Handbook of Information" by Steven Belcher is a must-have guide for individuals undergoing dialysis. It empowers patients with essential knowledge and support. A valuable resource for navigating the complexities of renal care.

Walters-Publishing.com - Pierre Walters