How much saline should be infused through the E-beam dialyzer and the extracorporeal circuit?

• A. 100 mLs
• B. 300 mLs
• C. 500 mLs
• D. 50 mLs

Answer: (B)

Priming the extracorporeal circuit with saline displaces air and confirms that the circuit and dialyzer are patent before starting dialysis. About 300 mL of saline is used because this amount reliably fills the dialyzer housing and all tubing, removing air pockets without introducing unnecessary excess fluid. If too little is used, air may remain in the hollow fibers or lines, risking air embolism; if too much is used, you simply end up flushing more saline through the circuit than needed. Therefore, roughly 300 mL is the standard priming volume for the E-beam dialyzer and circuit.