What is the correct order of actions after a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) collection?

The correct sequence of actions after a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) collection involves turning off ultrafiltration, decreasing the blood flow rate, and clamping the venous needle.

In this context, turning off ultrafiltration is a crucial first step following the collection of BUN to prevent any potential dilution of the blood sample with dialysate. By stopping ultrafiltration, the system stabilizes fluid removal rates, ensuring that the sample accurately reflects the concentration of urea in the blood, which is essential for validation of the results.

Decreasing the blood flow rate is necessary to adjust the system back to baseline after the sample has been collected. This allows for a smoother transition back to the regular dialysis procedure and prevents unnecessary strain on the patient's system.

Clamping the venous needle is the final action in this sequence, which maintains the integrity of the blood tubing after the sample collection. This helps prevent air from entering the circuit and supports the safe and effective continuation of the dialysis treatment.

This chosen sequence ensures that protocol is followed to maintain sample integrity and patient safety during the dialysis process.