JUST SAY NO TO REUSE

Thursday, January 24, 2013 | By arlene | No Comments

DO YOU KNOW YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE A NEW DIALYSER EACH TIME YOU ARE DIALYSED? 

What is reuse? Reuse is the term for using a dialyser more than once on a patient. Originally dialyser were labeled SINGLE USE ONLY, after lobbying by the industry they were relabeled for multiple use under direction of the patient’s doctor. 

Why should I ask for a new dialyser? In order to reuse a dialyser it needs to be treated with chemicals then rinsed thoroughly. The chemicals used are deadly and if not completely removed before use on a patient they can lead to serious medical problems or death. You are trusting that the person handling your dialyser is fully trained in this process, not over loaded with patients, and mistake free.

Would you do this with your car? We take our vehicles in for an oil change, would you let them take off the oil-filter rinse it out and reuse it? 

FRESENIUS SAYS NO TO REUSE: Fresenius dialysis care centers stopped using reuse dialyzers after questions were brought up about potential harm to patient. 

Posted in a Davita reception room: If you require hemodialysis and dialyser reuse is practiced in the facility, you are entitled to the following:

* To give or refuse permission to participate in the reuse program and to request to change from one to the other at any time either verbally or in writing. Refusal to participate in reuse will still allow the patient to dialysis in this facility and receive other services, however, failure to agree to reuse will minimally restrict the choice of dialyser.”