Certified Hemodialysis Technician Practice Exam 2025 - Free Hemodialysis Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary concern associated with using tap water in hemodialysis is the presence of chlorine and chloramines. These chemicals are commonly used in municipal water supplies for disinfection purposes. When tap water is utilized in the dialysis process, the chlorine and chloramines can react with the dialysis equipment and potentially be harmful to patients undergoing treatment. These agents can cause damage to red blood cells and lead to hemolytic reactions, which can be dangerous.

In dialysis, water quality is critical, and it must be treated to ensure that it is free from harmful contaminants, including chlorine and chloramines. Dialysis facilities often use reverse osmosis systems or other water treatment techniques to eliminate these substances to ensure patient safety.

The other choices touch upon water quality issues but do not address the immediate risks posed by chlorine and chloramines. While heavy metals and inadequate mineral balance are valid concerns, they are typically mitigated through proper water treatment protocols that specifically address the sanitization of the water used in hemodialysis.