Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

The standard that states the maximum allowable total microbial count of dialysate is designed to ensure patient safety and minimize the risk of infection during hemodialysis treatments. According to AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) standards, the acceptable upper limit for the total microbial count in dialysate is indeed 200 CFU/mL (colony-forming units per milliliter).

Maintaining this standard is crucial because high levels of microbial contamination can lead to infections, particularly in hemodialysis patients who are already at a higher risk due to their compromised kidney function and the nature of the treatment they receive. By setting a limit of 200 CFU/mL, AAMI aims to ensure that the environment is as safe as possible for patients receiving dialysis therapy.

Understanding these microbial standards is essential for dialysis technicians, as it directly impacts the protocols they follow to ensure the safety and health of the patients they care for. Monitoring and maintaining dialysate quality is a critical aspect of patient care in the dialysis setting.