When monitoring a dialysis patient, which of the following signs may indicate a serious complication?

Blurred vision can be a significant indicator of a serious complication in a dialysis patient. This symptom may be associated with a number of issues, particularly related to metabolic changes or complications stemming from the dialysis process. For instance, blurred vision could indicate issues such as fluctuations in blood sugar levels, rapid changes in electrolyte balance, or potential complications like dialysis disequilibrium syndrome, where patients experience neurological symptoms due to shifts in fluid and solutes. Therefore, when a dialysis patient reports blurred vision, it warrants immediate medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriately address it.

The other signs listed do not typically indicate as immediate or severe a complication as blurred vision. An increase in pulse rate may occur for a variety of reasons, including anxiety or mild dehydration, and while it could signify an issue, it is less specific than blurred vision. Feeling cold can result from environmental factors or inadequate warmth during treatment, whereas frequent urination might not have a direct relationship with the dialysis process itself and may indicate other kidney-related issues unrelated to immediate dialysis complications. Therefore, blurred vision stands out as a more concerning sign that should be carefully evaluated in the context of the patient's overall condition.