What is the primary purpose of anticoagulation during hemodialysis?

The primary purpose of anticoagulation during hemodialysis is to prevent blood clotting in the dialysis circuit. When blood is drawn from a patient's body for the purpose of filtering it through a dialysis machine, there are significant risks of clot formation in the system. Anticoagulants, typically medications that inhibit the clotting process, are used to maintain blood flow through the dialysis machine and to ensure that the treatment is efficient and effective.

If blood were to clot in the dialysis circuit, it could lead to several complications including blockages, the need for additional medical interventions, and potential harm to the patient due to interruptions in treatment. By preventing clotting, anticoagulation enables continuous and effective removal of waste products and excess fluid from the blood, which is the primary goal of hemodialysis.

Blood pressure, infection prevention, and blood flow rates are important considerations in the overall management of hemodialysis, but they do not directly relate to the specific role of anticoagulation, which is primarily aimed at keeping the blood flowing smoothly through the dialysis equipment.