What is dialysis equipment and why is it important to encourage regular maintenance?
Anand Machindra Dalvi is Senior Service Manager at Advent International Limited. He has hands-on experience and a proven track record with dialysis equipment, and has successfully repaired two Nipro Surdial 55 Plus Dialysis Machines in Ghana, West Africa. This article outlines the daily and weekly cleaning procedures for the Dialysis Machine, RO (reverse osmosis) Water Plant and provides guidance on repair and maintenance.

The importance of supporting maintenance of dialysis equipment

The Dialysis Equipment – The Dialysis Machine

The Dialysis Machine is a critical medical device used in haemodialysis treatments. To ensure optimal performance, safety, and patient care. Regular maintenance, repair, and cleaning are essential.
I would like to share the “DOs and DON’Ts” for optimal operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the Dialysis Machine.

Daily Activities on Dialysis Equipment

1. Cleaning of the machine

Wipe down the exterior and interior of the machine with a damp cloth.

2. Disinfection of connectors and tubing

Use a disinfectant solution to clean and disinfect all connectors and tubing.

3. Hot citric disinfection

Perform hot citric disinfection of the machine’s fluid pathways and connectors.

4. Checking of alarms and safety features

Verify that all alarms and safety features are functioning properly.

5. After each treatment

Rinse the dialysis machine and dialyser with saline solution and discard the used dialysate.

6. Alarms and Error Messages

Promptly investigate and resolve any alarms or error messages displayed on the machine.

Weekly Activities on Dialysis Equipment

1. Disinfection d1

Perform Hypochlorite 4% disinfection of the machine’s fluid pathways and connectors.

2. Replacement of filters

Replace the machine’s filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

3. Checking of electrical connections

Verify that all electrical connections are secure and functioning properly.

Pre-Treatment Protocol for Each Patient

Before starting each dialysis treatment, please ensure that you perform the following steps.

1. Water Rinse

Perform a water rinse to flush out any residual disinfectant or debris from the machine.

2. Disinfection

Disinfect the machine’s connectors and tubing according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

3. Patient Connection

Connect the patient to the machine, ensuring that all connections are secure and proper.

By following this protocol, you can ensure the safety and well-being of each patient undergoing dialysis treatment.

DOs

Regularly check and maintain the machine’s water treatment system.

Ensure proper cleaning and disinfection of the machine and its accessories.

Follow the recommended maintenance schedule.

Use genuine parts for the brand of dialysis machine you. The author works on a Nipro Dialysis machine and uses genuine Nipro parts and accessories.

Provide adequate training to operators and maintenance personnel.

DON’Ts

Never bypass safety features or alarms.

Never use unauthorised parts or accessories.

Do not ignore error messages or alarms.

Never attempt to repair the machine without proper training and authorisation.

Avoid exposing the machine to extreme temperatures, humidity, or physical stress.

Conclusion to The Dialysis Machine

By following these guidelines, you can ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity of the Dialysis Machine.
If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Reverse Osmosis Water Plant (RO)

The quality of the RO water is critical for patient safety and effective dialysis treatment. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommended maintenance schedules for the RO system.
I would like to share the “DOs and DON’Ts” for optimal operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the RO Water Plant.

DOs

Regularly check the RO water quality

Monitor the water quality parameters such as conductivity, pH, and temperature.

Maintain the RO system

Regularly replace the filters, clean the system, and check for any leaks.

Use a water softener

If the water supply is hard, use a water softener to prevent scaling and damage to the RO system.

Monitor the water pressure

Ensure the water pressure is within the recommended range for the RO system.

Keep the RO system clean

Regularly clean the RO system, including the filters, membranes, and pipes.

DON’Ts

Don’t use untreated water

Never use untreated water directly from the tap for dialysis.

Don’t bypass the RO system

Never bypass the RO system or use a different water source without proper treatment.

Don’t ignore maintenance

Failing to maintain the RO system can lead to poor water quality, machine damage, and patient harm.

Don’t use expired filters

Never use expired filters, as they can compromise the water quality and machine performance.

Don’t neglect regular testing

Failing to regularly test the RO water quality can lead to undetected problems and patient harm.

Preventive Maintenance Protocol for the Dialysis Machine

As a healthcare professional responsible for maintaining dialysis machines, it’s essential to follow a preventive maintenance protocol to ensure the machines are functioning correctly and safely.

Why Preventive Maintenance is Crucial?

Preventive maintenance helps in four main ways.

1. Reduce downtime: Regular maintenance minimizes the risk of unexpected breakdowns, ensuring uninterrupted treatment for patients.
2. Ensure patient safety: Proper maintenance helps prevent accidents and ensures the machine is functioning correctly, reducing the risk of adverse events.
3. Prolong machine lifespan: Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of the machine, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
4. Maintain compliance: Adhering to a preventive maintenance protocol helps ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Conclusion

By following this preventive maintenance protocol, healthcare professionals can ensure the safe and effective operation of dialysis machines, reducing downtime, and prolonging machine lifespan.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for specific maintenance requirements.

About the author – Anand Dalvi

Anand Dalvi has worked as a Biomedical Engineer and Service Engineer and is now the Service Manager for Advent International Limited.

He oversees the delivery of healthcare services and ensures the optimal maintenance of medical equipment and preventative maintenance within a large healthcare facility. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of healthcare delivery, he recognises the vital importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving exceptional patient outcomes. Throughout his career, he has developed a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership acumen, enabling him to effectively bridge the gap between healthcare technology and patient care.
Anand is from India and currently based in Ghana.

You can read more about Anand’s career here:
How to become a Senior Biomedical Engineer
And his earlier article about preventative maintenance here:
How to educate on the importance of scheduled preventative maintenance