Water Treatment
What is the main purpose of reverse osmosis in a dialysis water system?
Remove contaminants like metals, salts, endotoxins, and viruses.
Which bloodborne infection is most common in dialysis patients?
Hepatitis C.
Why is it important to check blood pressure after dialysis?
To prevent falls or accidents due to low blood pressure.
Which complication occurs when air enters the bloodstream?
Air embolism.
What is the maximum level of aluminum allowed in dialysis water?
0.01 mg/L.
Where does dialysis water originally come from?
Tap water that is safe for drinking
How long can the Hepatitis B virus survive on surfaces?
7 Days
What should be done if a patient’s BP is too low after dialysis?
Keep access connected, let patient rest, give water, and reassess BP.
What’s the first action if you suspect an air embolism?
Stop dialysis, clamp lines, place patient in left Trendelenburg.
What is the max level for endotoxin in dialysate?
2 EU/mL.
How long should the RO Machine be running before you can take your first test?
15 minutes
What should staff do immediately after a needle stick injury?
Wash area, report to supervisor, and get tested.
What’s the legal meaning of “If it’s not charted, it wasn’t done”?
If it’s not documented, legally it didn’t happen.
What are symptoms of too much heparin during dialysis?
Nosebleeds, prolonged bleeding, bruisin
What disinfectant is most commonly used in public water systems today?
Monochloramine
What is one risk of chloramine exposure in dialysis?
Anemia and hemolysis
Which virus does NOT require a dedicated dialysis machine?
HIV.
What must never be included in medical documentation?
Chart facts only, never ahead of time.
What causes a cuff to extrude in a PD catheter?
Weight loss or trauma can loosen catheter, exposing the cuff.
What is the action level for bacteria in dialysis water?
50 CFU/mL.
Which organs help protect healthy people from water contaminants?
Liver, digestive system, and kidneys
What PPE should be worn when caring for a Hep B positive patient?
Full PPE, (Gown,gloves,mask.face shield)
A patient weighs 78.4 kg after their treatment. Their Pre dialysis weight was 83.0kg, You removed 3.0kg, what went wrong?
False or inaccurate Pre weight.
Venous pressure over 300 indicates what?
Infiltration, kinking in the Lines, clot
How often would you test if a "Break through" was to happen?
Every 30 minutes