Photo by Miranda Meyer

I cannot get it wet, so showers are out of the question. One doesn't realize the luxury of a long, hot shower until it is taken away. A sponge bath is not a replacement.

Besides not being able to bathe in a 21st century manner, care must be taken not to pull on the catheter. It is connected directly to an artery and vein and not held in place by anything else.

Dialysis patients with a graft or fistula access can shower hourly if they so choose.