What symptom indicates the venous line may be clotting?

The symptom that indicates the venous line may be clotting is an increase in venous pressure. When a clot forms in the venous line, it obstructs blood flow back to the patient, which can lead to a buildup of pressure in the venous side of the dialysis circuit. This increase in pressure is a significant indicator that something is impeding the normal return of blood, and it is a critical symptom to monitor during treatment.

Low blood pressure does not specifically indicate clotting in the venous line; it might occur for various reasons unrelated to clotting. A drop in transmembrane pressure (TMP) generally suggests a problem with the dialyzer or the filtration process rather than a clot in the venous line. Likewise, clear dialysate appearance indicates that there is no contamination or clotting, rather than suggesting any issue in the venous return line. Understanding these distinctions helps you identify and respond effectively to complications during dialysis treatment.