Prior to the start of dialysis, what must the physician's order include?

For effective and safe dialysis treatment, the physician's order must include detailed specifications, including the specific dialyzer type and the blood flow rate. The choice of dialyzer is critical because different patients may have varied needs based on their body size, type of kidney disease, or other medical conditions, and specific dialyzers may be more effective for clearing particular toxins from the blood. The blood flow rate is equally important as it directly affects the efficiency of the dialysis process; higher flow rates can enhance clearance of waste products but must be balanced with the patient's comfort and safety.

Inclusion of just the duration of dialysis or blood type compatibility would not provide comprehensive and necessary details for patient management during the dialysis session. While duration is important for treatment planning, and compatibility is crucial for blood transfusions, these factors alone do not encompass the critical elements needed for the beginning of a dialysis treatment. Therefore, having specific instructions on the dialyzer and blood flow rate ensures a tailored approach to each patient's therapy, which is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.