When a dialysis machine alarms for a blood leak or pressure issue, what should the nurse do?

• A. Continue treatment and monitor the patient
• B. Stop treatment, assess the circuit for a leak or clot, and follow protocol to replace or repair components
• C. Adjust the dialysate flow rate to reduce pressure
• D. Disconnect and reconnect to a new circuit without assessment

Answer: (B)

When a dialysis machine sounds an alarm for a blood leak or a pressure problem, safety requires stopping the treatment immediately and examining the circuit. A blood-leak alert signals a possible leak in the circuit or dialyzer, which could expose the patient to blood loss or contamination if treatment continues. A pressure alarm points to issues like a clot, kink, or flow obstruction that could harm the patient or damage the machine if not addressed. By halting the procedure, you prevent further risk and can carefully inspect all components for leaks, cracks, or clots. Then you follow the established protocol to replace or repair the affected parts and only restart once the circuit is secure and functioning properly. Do not try to adjust flow to fix the problem, and avoid disconnecting and reconnecting to a new circuit without completing the assessment and necessary repairs.