Prime a hemodialysis machine before connection

Reinforce the KDOQI / CMS dialysis-start order from technician training. The patient is not connected until the machine test, bath, and circuit prime have passed.

1. Confirm the patient identity.
2. Confirm the prescription and dialyzer.
3. Run the machine self-test and conductivity / temperature check.
4. Hang and prime the blood circuit until air is cleared.
5. Test the access for thrill or the taught alternative before cannulation.
6. Connect the arterial line, then the venous line, as trained.
7. Start the blood pump.
8. Do not begin treatment if an alarm or test has failed.