During a dialysis treatment interruption, how long may blood-tinged saline be recirculated?

During a dialysis treatment interruption, how long may blood-tinged saline be recirculated?

• A. 5 minutes
• B. 30 minutes
• C. 45 minutes
• D. 60 minutes

Answer: (B)

During a dialysis treatment interruption, the blood-tinged saline may be recirculated for about half an hour. This short window helps keep the circuit clear and reduces the risk of clotting, contamination, or dilutional issues while you assess and address the cause of the interruption. It allows time to check alarms, troubleshoot, and determine whether the circuit can be safely continued or needs re-priming. If you try to extend beyond this period, the risk of clot formation or infection increases, and a re-primed circuit is typically required.

During a dialysis treatment interruption, the blood-tinged saline may be recirculated for about half an hour. This short window helps keep the circuit clear and reduces the risk of clotting, contamination, or dilutional issues while you assess and address the cause of the interruption. It allows time to check alarms, troubleshoot, and determine whether the circuit can be safely continued or needs re-priming. If you try to extend beyond this period, the risk of clot formation or infection increases, and a re-primed circuit is typically required.