What should be done if a dialysis machine alarms during a session?

If a dialysis machine alarms during a session, it is crucial to stop the treatment and check the patient. Alarms are designed to alert healthcare providers to potential problems that can affect the patient’s safety and treatment effectiveness. By stopping the treatment, the technician can prioritize the patient’s immediate health and well-being, ensuring they are monitored for any symptoms or complications that may require intervention.

Taking this action allows the healthcare team to assess whether the alarm is a result of a manageable issue, such as a blood pressure drop or an air bubble, or if it indicates a more serious problem. Addressing the patient promptly can prevent complications and ensure that appropriate actions are taken based on their condition.

Other options, such as ignoring the alarm if no symptoms are present, could put the patient at risk, as not all alarm conditions are immediately evident through observable symptoms. Adjusting the patient's position or increasing the dialysis time without understanding the cause of the alarm could exacerbate any underlying issues, leading to potential harm. Therefore, it is essential to follow protocol and address alarms with immediate attention to the patient’s status.