| [ Summary ] |
The dialysis device normally used in medical centers and hospitals is installed at a patient's home to perform home hemodialysis (HHD). Although HHD is performed outside the hospital, the responsibility of equipment management rests with the facility associated with performing HHD. Systematic management includes a variety of tasks ranging from water quality to equipment management. Essentially, water quality needs to be managed as well as facilities, and it is necessary to measure the chemical and biological pollution standards. However, our survey results showed that the variables used to evaluate water quality and the frequency significantly differ across facilities. With respect to appropriate equipment management, it is necessary to educate patients regarding the essential components of inspection because patients undergoing HHD perform daily inspection of the equipment. Periodic inspection requires quantitative evaluation of equipment and requires visits by clinical engineers and contractors. Notably, various difficulties/technical issues may occur depending on the usage environment; therefore, inspection of equipment requires individual measures in addition to the measures listed in the document provided with the HHD machine. |