After arterial and venous lines are connected and conductivity and pH testing are completed, which step can take place?

• A. The Hanson connectors (dialysate lines) can be connected to the dialyzer
• B. The transducer can be connected to the dialyzer
• C. The arterial line can be unclamped
• D. No further steps are required

Answer: (A)

Setting up the dialysate side of the circuit is the next essential step after the patient bloodlines are connected and the dialysate is checked for correct conductivity and pH. The Hanson connectors are the quick-connect fittings used to attach the dialysate lines to the dialyzer. Connecting these lines completes the dialysate circuit so the dialysate can flow through the dialyzer and create the necessary diffusion gradient across the membrane for toxin removal and fluid balance.

Other steps aren’t appropriate at this point because ongoing monitoring and priming depend on having the dialysate flow established. The transducer is used for pressure monitoring on the blood side, but connecting it to the dialyzer itself isn’t the immediate next step after verifying dialysate quality. Unclamping the arterial line prematurely could introduce air or disrupt the priming, and saying no further steps are required ignores the need to establish dialysate flow.