What are two of the most life-threatening conditions that can occur during treatment?

Air embolism and hemolysis are critical conditions that can arise during treatment, particularly in dialysis and other forms of renal replacement therapy.

Air embolism occurs when air enters the bloodstream, which can potentially obstruct blood vessels. This blockage can lead to severe consequences, including stroke or cardiovascular events, making it a life-threatening situation that requires immediate action to prevent serious complications.

Hemolysis refers to the destruction of red blood cells, which can occur during certain medical treatments if there is an improper interaction with the treatment equipment or if there are adverse reactions to the hematological components involved. The rapid breakdown of red blood cells leads to anemia and can result in severe outcomes like hypoxia, or insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues.

While fluid overload and infections, high blood pressure and fever, or electrolyte deficiency and shock are also serious, they may not pose the immediate life-threatening risks associated with air embolism and hemolysis. Thus, the critical nature of air embolism and hemolysis establishes them as two of the most dangerous risks during treatment, underscoring the necessity for careful monitoring and management of patients undergoing these procedures.