[Hemodialysis monitor assessment].
The choice of a dialysis monitor should be based on a thorough evaluation of multiple factors. The nephrologist must take into account not only the technical features of the device, but also aspects related to the operating environment, the organization of the dialysis unit, and the number and expertise of the nursing staff under his supervision. The enormous technological developments of recent years have contributed to a considerable improvement in the survival and quality of life of patents on chronic hemodialysis. Nevertheless, the issue of device flexibility and sophistication, today supported also by a high grade of safety thanks to the widespread use of electronics in the prescription, control and automatic feedback regulation of dialysis parameters, needs to be addressed with proper knowledge of the device and requires adequate training of nursing personnel. In addition to the knowledge of the basic technical features, it is very important to test the device in the clinical setting, where also the opinions of nurses play an important role. The ''partnership'' between nephrologists and industry, based on a bilateral exchange of ideas and experimental studies, still provides excellent results concerning new technological applications coupled with improvements in patient tolerance, survival and quality of life, further emphasizing the role of the nephrologist in properly evaluating these very complex devices.
Formica
M
M
Struttura Complessa di Nefrologia e Dialisi, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Croce e Carle, Cuneo. formica.m@ospedale.cuneo.it
Bainotti
S
S
Inguaggiato
P
P
Meinero
S
S
D006801:Humans; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*