Blood Clotting During Hemodialysis | Clotting In the Extracorporeal circuit

Summary

The video discusses effective management strategies for clotting during dialysis, emphasizing the importance of identifying clotting sites and maintaining optimal venous pressure. It details troubleshooting techniques, such as inspecting catheter connections and ensuring proper blood flow rates. The speaker highlights signs of clotting, including changes in blood color and pressure alarms, and suggests maintaining fluid balance through appropriate saline administration. The tutorial aims to educate healthcare staff and students on practical approaches to prevent complications in dialysis, fostering better patient outcomes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Clotting during dialysis must be managed by first identifying where the clotting occurs.
• 😀 Checking the catheter and the lines is crucial to determine the source of clotting issues.
• 😀 Monitoring alarms for venous pressure and transmembrane pressure helps identify potential problems.
• 😀 Dark blood in the lines indicates possible clotting and should be investigated immediately.
• 😀 Ensure proper priming techniques to avoid complications related to air in blood lines.
• 😀 Maintain appropriate blood flow rates and avoid low flow conditions to minimize clotting risks.
• 😀 Be attentive to changes in blood color and consistency in chambers to detect clotting early.
• 😀 Providing saline and adjusting pressure settings can help manage the patient’s needs effectively.
• 😀 Educating staff and sharing notes can improve overall understanding and response during emergencies.
• 😀 Engaging with the audience and encouraging feedback is essential for continuous improvement in content delivery.

Q & A

What is the first step in managing clotting during dialysis?

The first step is to identify where the clotting is occurring, particularly focusing on the venous side.

How can you check for clotting in the dialysis machine?

You can check for clotting by removing the cord through the catheter and examining it for any blockages or clots.

What should be done if the venous pressure and transmembrane pressure are both high?

If both pressures are high, it indicates a problem, and you should disconnect the cord to check for issues in the chamber.

What does it indicate if dark blood is seen in the lines?

Dark blood in the lines suggests that clotting may be occurring, and this requires immediate attention.

What is meant by 'extracorporeal and intravascular circuit' in dialysis?

These terms refer to the blood clot formation that can happen in the blood lines and chambers during dialysis.

How should the saline be managed during dialysis?

If the patient has a history of clotting, it may be necessary to adjust the saline infusion rate accordingly.

What is the recommended blood flow rate to minimize clotting risk?

A blood flow rate of around 250 ml per minute is recommended to reduce the chances of clotting.

What is a common technical error that can lead to clotting?

Improper priming of the system can lead to air in the blood lines, increasing the risk of clotting.

What should be monitored to ensure effective dialysis management?

Continuous monitoring of venous pressure, transmembrane pressure, and the appearance of blood in the lines is essential.

How does patient history influence the management of dialysis?

Knowing the patient's history of clotting helps tailor the management strategy, including adjusting saline and blood flow rates.