What steps are performed during recirculation of blood in the extracorporeal circuit after a treatment interruption?

During recirculation of blood in the extracorporeal circuit after a treatment interruption, returning the patient's blood and recirculating the circuit with normal saline is a crucial step. This process helps to ensure that any potential clots or fibrin that may have formed during the interruption are broken up, and it also maintains the flow of blood through the system, preventing stasis. The addition of normal saline can help to flush the lines and keep the blood moving effectively back to the patient, which is important for maintaining hemodynamic stability and ensuring that the treatment can resume smoothly.

This practice is vital as it not only prepares the circuit for continuation of treatment but also safeguards the patient’s health by reducing the risk of complications that can arise from stagnant blood, such as clot formation or hemolysis.