When a patient is receiving hemofiltration, what issues may occur that the dialysis technician should monitor?

In the context of hemofiltration, it is crucial for dialysis technicians to monitor the patient's hydration status closely. The primary concern during this process is the potential for the patient to either be underhydrated or overhydrated. Hemofiltration involves the removal of excess fluid and waste products from the bloodstream, and if the rate of fluid removal is not properly managed, it can lead to significant imbalances.

Underhydration occurs when too much fluid is removed, resulting in decreased blood volume and potentially leading to complications like hypotension and reduced organ perfusion. Conversely, overhydration can happen if insufficient fluid is removed, which can lead to hypertension and fluid overload symptoms such as edema and difficulty breathing.

Monitoring for these hydration-related issues is essential for maintaining the safety and effectiveness of hemofiltration treatments, ensuring that the patient remains stable throughout their therapy.

While other issues, such as hypotension related to large volume removal or changes in medication serum levels, can also arise, the direct relationship of hydration status to the mechanics of hemofiltration emphasizes its importance in patient monitoring during treatment. Frequent intracellular osmolar shifts are generally not a primary focus, as they are more characteristic of other processes rather than hemofiltration itself.