Where should patients who are Hepatitis B surface antigen positive be dialyzed?

Patients who are Hepatitis B surface antigen positive should be dialyzed in a separate area on a dedicated machine to ensure the highest level of infection control and patient safety. Hepatitis B is a highly contagious virus that poses significant risks of transmission to other patients and healthcare workers if proper precautions are not taken.

Using a dedicated machine for these patients minimizes the risk of cross-contamination, as other patients do not have access to the same equipment. This dedicated approach is critical in maintaining strict infection control protocols that safeguard the health of all patients in the dialysis facility.

In contrast, shared machines in a designated area, general areas, or secluded areas without specific provisions would not provide the necessary level of safety and could potentially expose others to the virus. It's vital for healthcare facilities to adhere to these recommended practices to manage the risks associated with bloodborne pathogens like Hepatitis B effectively.