Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

What is the correct sequence of steps for dialyzer reprocessing after a dialysis treatment?

1. Disinfection, Performance Tests, Pre-Cleaning, Dialyzer Rejection

2. Pre-Cleaning, Dialyzer Rejection, Performance Tests, Disinfection

3. Dialyzer Rejection, Disinfection, Pre-Cleaning, Performance Tests

4. Performance Tests, Pre-Cleaning, Disinfection, Dialyzer Rejection

The correct answer is: Pre-Cleaning, Dialyzer Rejection, Performance Tests, Disinfection

The correct sequence of steps for dialyzer reprocessing is crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of subsequent dialysis treatments. Starting with pre-cleaning is essential because it involves the initial step of removing blood and other contaminants from the dialyzer. This step ensures that any residual proteins or elements that could affect the next dialysis session are effectively cleared out. Following pre-cleaning, dialyzer rejection comes into play. This step involves assessing whether the dialyzer is appropriate for reuse or if it should be discarded based on its integrity and cleanliness after pre-cleaning. If it passes this evaluation, it moves on to performance testing. Performance tests are critical to verify that the dialyzer is still functioning effectively, which includes checking for any possible leaks or malfunctioning parts. Finally, disinfection is performed to eliminate any remaining microorganisms, ensuring the dialyzer is safe for the next patient. This sequence is designed to maximize patient safety by ensuring that reprocessed dialyzers are free from contaminants and functionally sound before reuse. Understanding this order can help technicians maintain high standards in dialysis treatment protocols.