What should be monitored closely to avoid complications during a dialysis treatment?

Monitoring blood flow rates and pressures during dialysis treatment is crucial to avoid complications. Blood flow rates directly influence the efficiency of the dialysis process. If the flow rate is too high, it could lead to vascular access complications, such as bleeding or thrombosis. Conversely, if the flow rate is too low, it can result in inadequate dialysis, leading to the buildup of toxins in the patient's blood.

Maintaining the appropriate pressures is equally important. High venous pressures may indicate access issues or clots, while low pressures might suggest insufficient blood flow through the dialysis machine. Both scenarios can cause adverse effects on the patient, including discomfort, ineffective treatment, or serious complications such as hemolysis.

While patient hydration levels, dialysate pH balance, and the length of the dialysis session are significant factors to monitor in their own right, they do not have the immediate and critical impact on patient safety during the treatment that blood flow rates and pressures do. Keeping a close eye on these parameters helps ensure an effective and safe dialysis treatment for patients.