A rise in which parameter during hemodialysis is likely to indicate clotted fibers?

A rise in transmembrane pressure during hemodialysis typically indicates clotted fibers within the dialyzer. This parameter measures the pressure difference between the blood and dialysate sides of the membrane. When fibers become clotted, it creates increased resistance to blood flow, leading to an elevation in transmembrane pressure.

In a well-functioning system, transmembrane pressure remains stable; however, if clots form, the efficiency of blood flow is compromised, resulting in the need for higher pressure to maintain adequate dialysate flow. This increase serves as an important signal to healthcare providers that the dialysis membrane may be obstructed and intervention may be necessary, such as replacing the dialyzer. Other parameters like blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation might change in response to various factors during dialysis but are not specific indicators of internal dialyzer issues like clotting.