Visual summary
The order, concentrate, and machine settings must agree before the patient is exposed.
Text version
Read the actual order
Before setup, compare the prescription with the concentrate label and machine settings. Check potassium, calcium, sodium, bicarbonate, magnesium, glucose, temperature, and any ordered profile; do not rely on container color.
Verify machine compatibility
Confirm the concentrate and proportioning system are compatible. Complete the manufacturer and unit checks for conductivity, pH, temperature, and safety systems before treatment and after relevant concentrate changes.
Know what can change
A substitute concentrate may change several electrolytes at once. Bicarbonate delivery also depends on the acid concentrate and machine conventions; clarify an unfamiliar product rather than assuming equivalent numbers.
Recognize a possible mismatch
Unexpected cramps, tingling, hypotension, confusion, chest or back pain, or an abnormal blood appearance require immediate patient and circuit assessment. A cluster among patients raises concern for a shared system problem.
Stop an unsafe setup
Do not bypass alarms or independently substitute a different concentrate. Escalate unavailable prescriptions, conflicting labels, or failed verification before connection; follow the emergency pathway if the patient is already affected.
Handoff the details
Report the ordered composition, product and lot, machine settings, verification results, symptom timing, and actions taken. Document who authorized any change and when the patient or equipment will be reassessed.
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