HomeWhat should you do if a problem occurs during a home haemodialysis session?
Home haemodialysis offers greater independence and can improve patients’ quality of life. However, it is essential to recognise warning signs and adopt the right reflexes in the event of a problem to ensure treatment remains safe and effective.
Warning signs to watch for and how to respond
During a dialysis session, there are several symptoms you should pay attention to. However, remember that treatment can always be interrupted safely during dialysis, and your healthcare team or technical support service is available to help you. Stay calm and, if in doubt, do not hesitate to contact them :
1. Problems related to vascular access
- Redness, swelling or warmth around the fistula or catheter: This may indicate an infection.
- Persistent or unusual pain: This may be a sign of a problem with the vascular access or another complication.
- Excessive bleeding at the needle insertion site: This is often harmless. Apply firm pressure to the puncture site using a sterile dressing. If the bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes, contact emergency services.
2. Feeling unwell or unusual general symptoms
- Low blood pressure (dizziness, extreme fatigue, sweating, confusion): This is often caused by excessive fluid removal during the session. Lie down, raise your legs and breathe calmly. Drink a small amount of salted water if recommended by your doctor.
- High blood pressure (headaches, ringing in the ears, nosebleeds): This may indicate that the treatment settings need adjustment.
- Fever or chills: This may suggest an infection, particularly if the vascular access is infected. Stop the session, take your temperature and contact your healthcare team promptly.
3. Technical problems with the dialysis machine
- Frequent or unusual machine alarms: Check the connections and refer to the user guide. If unsure, contact your technical support service.
- Abnormally low blood flow: Check whether your arm position or the tubing is bent or obstructed.
- Presence of air bubbles in the circuit: Stop the session immediately and contact your healthcare team.
How to help prevent complications
- Check your vascular access (fistula or catheter) every day.
- Maintain good hand hygiene before handling the dialysis equipment.
- Monitor your blood pressure before and after each session.
- Follow your prescribed dietary and fluid recommendations.
If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your dialysis centre or nephrologist.
In the event of a medical emergency (loss of consciousness, uncontrolled bleeding), call emergency services immediately.