What action is appropriate when conductivity and temperature readings are stable before starting treatment?

• A. Document prior to tx
• B. Calibrate the machine
• C. Ignore readings
• D. Proceed to treatment

Answer: (A)

Stability of conductivity and temperature before starting treatment shows the system is in safe, acceptable ranges and ready to be used. The best action is to document these baseline readings prior to therapy. Recording the exact values, along with time and machine/patient identifiers, creates a verifiable record that the dialysate composition and temperature were checked and approved before treatment begins. This documentation supports safety, quality control, and traceability.

Calibration isn’t required just because readings are stable; it’s done when the readings drift, are out of range, or after service. Ignoring the readings would bypass a critical safety check, and proceeding without documenting loses an essential record. So, document before starting.