What condition may occur if air is trapped in the dialyzer during treatment?

When air is trapped in the dialyzer during treatment, it can lead to clotting. The presence of air can disrupt the normal flow of blood and dialysate, creating conditions where clots can form. The blood may not be adequately oxygenated or may encounter areas of stagnation, which increases the risk of coagulation. Clotting is particularly concerning because it can block blood flow, impair the functioning of the dialysis treatment, and potentially cause the need for additional medical intervention.

The other options—infection, hemolysis, and dehydration—do not directly relate to the issue of air in the dialyzer. Infection usually arises from breaches in sterility or improper handling, hemolysis involves the destruction of red blood cells due to various stressors, and dehydration pertains to fluid balance that can lead to complications if not managed properly. In summary, the entrapment of air is specifically linked to clotting, making it the correct response to the question about consequences of air in the dialyzer.