Dialysis residents require monitoring before and after dialysis, communication with dialysis providers, vascular access protection, fluid management, medication timing review, and early recognition of complications.
Nurse Responsibilities
- Check pre/post dialysis vital signs and weight as ordered.
- Protect fistula/graft/access; no blood pressure or blood draws on access arm unless specifically allowed.
- Monitor for bleeding, hypotension, dizziness, weakness, confusion, shortness of breath, chest pain, cramps, access infection, and missed dialysis.
- Communicate medication holds or timing issues per policy/provider order.
- Review dialysis paperwork upon return.
- Notify provider for missed treatment, abnormal findings, access bleeding, fever, severe weakness, or change in condition.
Competency
Access protection, pre/post dialysis assessment, dialysis communication form, emergency response, and documentation.