What should you do if a patient displays an adverse reaction to a medication during dialysis?

When a patient exhibits an adverse reaction to a medication during dialysis, the most appropriate course of action is to inform the physician and stop the medication. This response is critical for several reasons.

First, adverse reactions can be significant and potentially life-threatening, necessitating immediate professional intervention. By notifying the physician, you ensure that the patient receives the appropriate care and treatment adjustments tailored to their specific situation. Stopping the medication helps prevent further complications that could arise if the adverse event continues to occur.

Additionally, involving the physician allows for a thorough assessment of the patient's condition and the opportunity to initiate alternative therapies or interventions that might be required in response to the adverse reaction. Prompt communication is vital in a clinical setting, especially when patients are already in a vulnerable state during procedures such as dialysis.

In contrast, documenting the reaction while continuing treatment could compromise patient safety, as it disregards the need for immediate action. Changing the patient's position and simply observing may delay critical care that could mitigate harm. Administering a counteracting agent without a physician's guidance can be dangerous, as it may not be appropriate for the specific medication causing the reaction or the individual patient's condition.