A quick reference guide to haemofiltration and renal failure March ...

While machines involved in CRRT differ in make and model, the
concepts of CRRT do not change. An understanding of the goal
will allow for nurses to adapt to the management of different
CRRT devices.
Despite the particular make and model, some characteristics are
common place. Circuitry, warming devices, alarms and
programming are universal.
Circuitry is clear and consists of;
• a venous access line; usually colour indicated blue
• an ‘arterial’ access line; colour indicated red
• a bubble trap for ‘catching’ air that may be in the line
before its return to the patient
• an area of tubing compliant to a warming device
• thickened areas of clear tubing which are manipulated by
the peristaltic action of the machine pumps
The Warming device is responsible for controlling the
temperature of the replacement fluid prior to its entry into the
circuit. The importance of temperature control has been
previously discussed in the care of the patient and observations.
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