Renal Dialysis machines are commonly known as kidney machines because they assist the kidneys to work. There are many reasons why someone may need to be dialysed:

• If the kidneys are not working satisfactorily because of disease or injury
• To remove harmful wastes
• To remove extra fluid                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Dialysis Machine
  

How Does It Work?

Patients are connected to dialysis machines via a line (that looks like a large intravenous drip) that is placed in the neck or the groin. Dialysis can be required 24 hours a day or for only a few hours each day. The patient’s condition will determine how much dialysis is necessary.
Blood is removed via the catheter and is circulated through a filter in the machine to clean the blood and is then returned via the same line.
Dialysis machines come in many shapes and sizes but work in the same way. Patient’s receiving dialysis require close monitoring of their blood pressure and will require a number of blood tests to check that the dialysis is working properly.

Are There Any Complications?

All Intensive Care interventions and procedures carry a degree of potential risk even when performed by skilled and experienced staff. Please discuss these issues with the medical and nursing staff who are caring for the patient.

Any Questions?

Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them with the ICU nurses and doctors.

Translations:

• Arabic
• Chinese
• Greek
• Italian
• Macedonian

Please note these translations are based on an earlier version of this description.

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The information contained on this page is general in nature and therefore cannot reflect individual patient variation.  In addition it reflects Australian intensive care practice which may differ from that of other countries. It is meant as a back up to specific information which will be discussed with you by the Doctors and Nurses caring for your loved one.  ICCMU attests to the accuracy of the information contained here BUT takes no responsibility for how it may apply to an individual patient.  Please refer to the full disclaimer.

Publication

Dialysis Pumps ~ Version 1.3
First published June 2004

Reviewed October 2011.

Reviewed by Kay Johnson CNS ICCMU