Kidney (Renal)

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Renal Dialysis support team is dedicated not only to providing excellent care, but also making sure our patients and families are well informed and supported. Our team consists of advanced practitioner providers, child life specialists, dietitians, psychologist, quality of life specialist, school coordinator and social workers. 

Advanced Practitioner Providers

This team of licensed health care professionals works closely with each patient’s primary kidney doctor to provide an extra layer of support, guidance and care. Our nurse practitioners carefully review lab results, symptoms and overall health to make any needed adjustments to the care plan. They also regularly meet with the patient and family to discuss any changes, address concerns and celebrate the child’s progress. 

Child Life Specialists

Our child life team supports our dialysis patients through learning and fun activities throughout their kidney care at Texas Children’s. Patients will learn about the Renal Department and dialysis to decrease anxiety and provide comfort and education. This team can also be with parents during certain procedures your child may experience. 

Dietitians

Our nutrition team carefully monitors each patient’s growth and development. We help understanding how renal friendly foods supports their child’s health, growth and overall well-being. We offer meal ideas and guidance tailored to empower parents to make the best choices for their child to build lifelong healthy habits.

Psychologist

Undergoing kidney dialysis is a big transition in a child’s life. Our renal psychologist will gently support the child as they navigate their thoughts and feelings about their diagnosis and adjust to life in the dialysis unit. Spending time with the psychologist can help them feel heard and help build lifelong coping skills.

Quality of Life Specialist

Our quality of life specialist supports our patients and families to understand the mix of emotions, questions and new daily routines that come with receiving dialysis. They strive to help turn dialysis from a stressful experience into a more manageable and even uplifting part of care.

School Coordinator

A dialysis patient may miss school on dialysis treatment days. Our school coordinator helps the child by finding the school programs and supports that work best for them and by keeping them connected and on track with learning.

They work closely with families and schools to provide guidance and support such as recommending 504 accommodations, helping with special education programs, or connecting parents with early childhood intervention services. 

Social Workers

Our social work team advocates for the child’s best interests by working closely with the medical team to ensure the family’s needs, values and concerns are known. And we help parents process complex emotions, build coping strategies and find a sense of balance during challenging times. Our personalized education and support help families better understand the child’s care, connecting parents with helpful resources or guidance through overwhelming aspects of medical care.