When a patient is dialyzed at high blood flow rate using a small gauge needle, what is a potential outcome?

Using a small gauge needle while dialyzing a patient at a high blood flow rate can lead to hemolysis of red blood cells. When blood is drawn through a narrow needle at high speeds, it creates a turbulent flow that increases the shear stress on red blood cells. This shear force can cause the cells to break apart, leading to hemolysis. The resulting breakdown of red blood cells can have significant implications for the patient, including anemia and potential complications related to the release of hemoglobin into the bloodstream.

In contrast, infiltration is more likely associated with improper placement of the needle or high venous pressure. Increased pressure readings could occur due to a variety of factors, but they are not specifically linked to using a small gauge needle. Inadequate removal of waste products could happen due to various issues with dialyzer function or blood flow rate, but they aren't direct results of using a small gauge needle at high rates. Overall, the relationship between high blood flow rates and small gauge needles distinctly points to hemolysis as the primary concern in this scenario.