The dialysis and transplant patient communications plan can assist patients with having critical information on-hand in case of an emergency. This is not a substitute for medical records. This is basic information to help the patient and dialysis provider locate information in case of an emergency. If you must evacuate to another area, unable to return home, or your regular dialysis unit is inaccessible due to a disaster, this communications plan can provide basic information to first responders and to a receiving dialysis treatment facility.
Fill in the blanks with the most current information. Carry this communications plan with you at all times, in your wallet or purse.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency Checklist Postcard (English)
This postcard size resource includes an emergency preparedness checklist and an emergency go-bag checklist to help dialysis and kidney transplant patients prepare for an emergency or disaster.
Emergency Checklist Postcard (Spanish)
This postcard size resource includes an emergency preparedness checklist and an emergency go-bag checklist to help dialysis and kidney transplant patients prepare for an emergency or disaster.
Evacuating—Why Dialysis Patients Need to Follow Evacuation Orders
This Resource provided information for dialysis patients on the importance of following evacuation orders issued by emergency officials.
How to Appoint a Healthcare Surrogate (English and Spanish)
Use this form to help you in appointing a healthcare surrogate. A healthcare surrogate is a person you give permission to make medical decisions for you when you are unable to make your own health decisions.
During an Emergency
3-Day Emergency Kidney Diet
This is a sample 3-day emergency diet that can help reduce the waste that builds up in your blood if you are unable to maintain your normal dialysis treatment schedule. English Spanish
Save a Life Fact Sheet
Kidney failure is a life-threatening condition. This fact sheet outlines helpful information for dialysis and transplant patients about planning ahead for an emergency.
FEMA: National Emergency Family Registry and Locator System (FERLS)
This tool helps bring families and friends back together after being displaced during an emergency. This tool is only active during emergencies.
Drink Safe Water
After a natural disaster, water may not be safe to use. Germs and chemicals may be in the water. This tool offers guidance on how to be sure your water is safe.
After an Emergency
Red Cross: Safe and Well Website
War and disaster can separate family members when they need each other the most. The American Red Cross can help your family members reconnect, whether the separation was caused by a recent emergency here at home, war or natural disaster overseas, or events as far back as the Holocaust.
Ready.gov: Returning Home
Returning home after a disaster or emergency can be both physically and mentally challenging. Above all, use caution. You may be anxious to see your property but do not return to your home before the area is declared to be safe by local officials.
CDC: Clean Up Your Home
After a hurricane or flood, you may need to clean up your home and yard. Take these steps to stay safe.
KCER Kids
Ready 2 Help Card Game from FEMA
FEMA’s Individual and Community Preparedness Division released Ready 2 Help, a card game for children ages 8-12. The new resource teaches youth how to stay safe and get help in emergencies.
CDC's Ready Wrigley Books
These electronic books from the CDC can be printed or viewed on the computer to provide educational activities and information about emergency and disaster preparedness.
NFPA: How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan
This handout provides tips on how to plan your fire escape route, including a grid to draw a map of your plan.
Ready.gov/kids
This fun and educational website provides emergency preparedness information that parents, teachers, and children can use to help ensure everyone is prepared for an emergency.
For Parents
Be a Ready Kid
Emergencies and disasters can be scary, but there are ways to help you stay safe before, during, and even after a disaster. Here, you can play games to become a Disaster Master and learn how to build an emergency kit. You will meet our friend Pedro the Penguin, who will teach you all about staying safe. You will even be able to make your own emergency plan with your family.
Ready.gov - Parents
Preparing for emergencies shouldn't fall on your shoulders alone. Young children and teens alike need to be part of the process — for their own safety and sense of empowerment. This site provides helpful information and activities to get your whole family involved in emergency planning.
