Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preparing a hemodialytic site and protecting skin disorders and wounds. The apparatus includes a substantially rectangular pad formed of a transparent, non-absorbent, waterproof material. The pad is fastened to the site via two fasteners, each of the fasteners including hook and loop portions, each of the hook portions affixed along a longitudinal edge of the pad, a proximal end of the loop portion adhered to a proximal end of a respective one of the hook portions, and the loop portions substantially parallel to each other and aligned with a respective one of the hook portion. When preparing a hemodialytic site, the following steps are performed: applying a topical anesthesia to the hemodialytic site; positioning the apparatus over the hemodialytic site, fastening the apparatus to an area of a body surrounding the hemodialytic site; wearing the apparatus for a predetermined time period; and removing the apparatus.