The bioinstrumentation of hemodialysis

This paper is designed to introduce the nondialysis nurse to the world of the hemodialysis patient through an overview of its bioinstrumentation. The aim of this paper is not to make a dialysis specialist of all who read it, but rather to assist the nurse--through an understanding of the basic principles of dialysis, the artificial kidney machine, and its component parts--to feel comfortable around the dialysis machine. The outcome will be to improve the quality of care given to the patient who is receiving hemodialysis.