How to Access a Dialysis Catheter

Sometimes due to various conditions of the kidney, it is necessary to have dialysis performed. In the procedure of dialysis, a dialysis catheter is used for the unobstructed exchange of blood through the haemodialysis machine in a satisfactory manner. The catheter is placed in a comfortable manner in the region of the affected kidney and can be kept attached to the skin's surface for weeks without any complications, however in order to prevent infection and ensure proper functioning a dialysis catheter must be handled properly.

Instructions

• 1

  Close the caps and clamps of the catheter tightly when not in use to avoid the entrance of air bubbles into the tube.

• 2

  Avoid disturbing the catheter tube; it may lead to the formation of kinks in the tube.

• 3

  Handle or displace the catheter as little as possible between the dialysis sessions to avoid the formation of an obstructive clot in the tubing.

• 4

  Avoid turning towards the side of body wherein the catheter is placed when lying down. This inflicts pressure on the tubing and can lead to sucking-in of impure blood into the body or bursting of the tube.