During heparin-free dialysis, what complication should the technician/nurse monitor for when blood is transfused into at-risk patients?

In the context of heparin-free dialysis, monitoring for increased viscosity of the blood in the dialyzer is crucial, particularly when blood is transfused into patients who are already at risk. When blood components are introduced into the system, especially in cases involving older stored blood or high hematocrit levels, it can lead to an increase in the viscosity of the blood.

Increased viscosity can create challenges during dialysis, such as reduced blood flow rates and increased pressure within the dialyzer, which can potentially lead to clotting issues even in the absence of heparin. This monitoring is essential to ensure that the dialysis process remains efficient and to avoid complications that could arise from the elevated resistance in the circuit due to thickened blood.

This understanding highlights the importance of managing blood product transfusions carefully in patients undergoing dialysis, ensuring that the blood's properties are maintained within acceptable limits to support effective treatment outcomes.