What is a critical reminder for patients to ensure their safety during dialysis treatment?

Keeping the access visible is vital for the safety of patients undergoing dialysis treatment. Maintaining visibility of the access site—typically a fistula or graft—allows both the patient and healthcare providers to monitor for any signs of complications, such as infection, clotting, or other issues that could arise from the vascular access. This visual check helps to ensure that the access remains patent and functional throughout the treatment process, facilitating proper blood flow during dialysis, which is essential for effective toxin removal and overall patient safety.

While having a caregiver present, monitoring vital signs, and avoiding movement during treatment are important considerations for patient safety, they do not specifically address the immediate need for maintaining the integrity of the vascular access, which is critical during dialysis sessions.