Which of the following factors can decrease diffusion during hemodialysis?

Inadequate heparinization can decrease diffusion during hemodialysis because it may lead to the formation of blood clots within the dialyzer. Heparin is an anticoagulant that helps maintain blood flow and prevents clotting during the dialysis process. When heparin levels are insufficient, clotting can occur, which can obstruct the flow of blood through the dialyzer. This obstruction can hinder the ability of the dialyzer to effectively exchange solutes between the blood and the dialysate, thereby reducing the overall efficiency of diffusion. Proper anticoagulation is essential for optimizing the dialysis procedure and ensuring that the solutes, including toxins and excess electrolytes, can move freely across the dialyzer membrane for effective removal from the bloodstream.