Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a potential complication of reprocessing dialyzers incorrectly?

1. Increased efficiency

2. Infection risk

3. Enhanced device longevity

4. Reduced fluid retention

The correct answer is: Infection risk

In the context of reprocessing dialyzers, the potential complications that arise from incorrect procedures can significantly impact patient safety and treatment efficacy. Reprocessing dialyzers involves cleaning and disinfecting them for reuse, which if done improperly, can lead to inadequate removal of contaminants or infectious agents. This presents a heightened risk for infections, including bloodborne pathogens, as the dialyzer is directly in contact with the patient's bloodstream during treatment. The presence of residual pathogens can lead to serious health complications, such as bloodstream infections or other systemic infections, resulting in adverse outcomes for the patient. In contrast, other options do not align with the realities of improper reprocessing. Increased efficiency is not a characteristic of improperly reprocessed dialyzers; instead, effectiveness may be compromised. Enhanced device longevity can be a benefit of proper reprocessing but is not guaranteed if protocols are not followed correctly. Similarly, reduced fluid retention is unrelated to the process of reprocessing and is not a complication that arises from improper handling of dialyzers. Overall, the focus on infection risk highlights the critical importance of following reprocessing protocols accurately to safeguard patient health.