Care during dialysis

Once dialysis has commenced, all patients can expect to have their dialysis monitored and recorded, any issues shared with the staff actioned. Observation should be recorded in electronic patient records and in dialysis care round document. adequate observations will prevent unexpected dialysis emergencies  and clotted circuits.

• Perform observations (blood pressure, pulse, rate and record machine parameters, dialysis progress and medications adminestered etc). The frequency of observations should be risk assessed. In very stable patients who normally have no adverse dialysis events requiring intervention; observation can be taken pre, midway and post dialysis. Patient that are less stable will require as a minimum hourly observations.
• Patients that are diabetic will require additional blood sugar monitoring, as a minimum pre and post dialysis
• Routine drug  rounds should be completed for e.g. iron and erythropoetin
• Prepare and administer any extra prescribed medication as per protocols e.g. antibiotics
• Chase any recent test results  and ensure actioned appropriately
• Ensure the transport for patient's return journey is arrenged
• Train patient in self care /shared care competencies if interested