What should happen if a patient experiences a severe allergic reaction during treatment?

When a patient experiences a severe allergic reaction during hemodialysis, the most appropriate action is to stop the treatment and call for help. This response is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, continuing with the treatment while the patient is having a severe allergic reaction could exacerbate their condition and lead to life-threatening complications. It is imperative to prioritize patient safety and stabilize their condition before proceeding with any treatment.

Calling for help is also critical because severe allergic reactions can progress rapidly and may require immediate medical intervention. Healthcare professionals trained to manage such emergencies can provide the appropriate medications and support that a hemodialysis technician alone may not be equipped to administer.

While administering antihistamines can be beneficial in treating allergic reactions, it is not within the scope of practice for hemodialysis technicians to determine and provide this treatment. Instead, the priority must be to cease all dialysis activity and ensure the patient receives comprehensive medical assessment and intervention from qualified personnel.

In summary, stopping the treatment and seeking immediate assistance is the correct course of action in this scenario, ensuring the safety and health of the patient in distress.