When should a dialysis patient be referred to a social worker?

A dialysis patient should be referred to a social worker when they need support coping with their diagnosis because social workers are specifically trained to provide emotional and psychological support. Coping with a chronic illness like kidney disease can be overwhelming, and patients may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, or isolation. A social worker can help patients navigate these feelings, provide counseling, and connect them with resources that facilitate better mental health and coping strategies.

In the context of the other options, while technical questions about treatment and self-care interests might require input from healthcare professionals, they do not directly pertain to the emotional and psychosocial support that a social worker can provide. Assistance with transportation is more of a logistical issue and can often be assisted by other healthcare staff or community resources but does not specifically relate to the emotional aspects of managing a chronic illness.