What is the main purpose of monitoring venous pressure during dialysis?

Monitoring venous pressure during dialysis is primarily aimed at detecting potential complications such as infiltration. Infiltration occurs when the needle used for access into the blood vessel dislodges or damages the vessel wall, leading to blood leaking into the surrounding tissue. By keeping an eye on venous pressure, healthcare providers can identify abnormal readings that may indicate issues with the vascular access, allowing for prompt intervention to prevent further complications.

This monitoring also serves to ensure that the dialysis process is safe and effective by providing real-time feedback on the status of the access site, making it crucial for maintaining patient safety during treatment. In contrast, adjusting blood flow rates, ensuring equipment functionality, and managing dialysate composition are important aspects of the dialysis process but are secondary to the immediate recognition of vascular access complications like infiltration.