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What to do if something
goes wrong ?
HomeWHAT TO DO IF A PROBLEM OCCURS DURING A HOME HEMODIALYSIS SESSION?
Home hemodialysis provides greater autonomy and improves patients' quality of life. However, it is essential to recognize warning signs and adopt the right reflexes in case of a problem to ensure a safe treatment.
WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR AND HOW TO REACT
During a dialysis session, several symptoms require close attention. But remember, you can always stop the session if needed, and your medical team or technical support service is available to assist you. Stay calm, and if in doubt, do not hesitate to contact them:
1. Issues related to vascular access
- Redness, swelling, or warmth at the fistula or catheter site: May indicate an infection.
- Persistent or unusual pain: Could signal a vascular access problem or complication.
- Excessive bleeding at the puncture site: Often harmless. Apply firm pressure on the puncture site with a sterile compress. If bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes, contact emergency services.
2. Discomfort or abnormal general symptoms
- Low blood pressure (dizziness, extreme fatigue, sweating, confusion): Often caused by excessive fluid removal during the session. Lie down, elevate your legs, and breathe calmly. Drink a small amount of salted water if recommended by your doctor.
- High blood pressure (headaches, ringing in the ears, nosebleeds): May indicate improper treatment adjustment.
- Fever or chills: Possible infection, especially if vascular access is affected. Stop the session, take your temperature, and contact your medical team immediately.
3. Technical problems with the dialysis machine
- Frequent or abnormal machine alarms: Check the connections and refer to the user manual. If unsure, call technical support.
- Unusually low blood flow: Check if your arm position or tubing is bent.
- Presence of air bubbles in the circuit: Stop the session immediately and contact your medical team.
HOW TO PREVENT COMPLICATIONS
- Monitor your vascular access (fistula or catheter) daily.
- Maintain good hand hygiene before handling the equipment.
- Check your blood pressure before and after each session.
- Follow your prescribed diet and fluid restrictions.
If symptoms persist or worsen, call your dialysis center or nephrologist.
In case of a life-threatening emergency (loss of consciousness, uncontrollable bleeding), call your country's emergency number immediately.
