If a patient feels chilled during hemodialysis, what should the technician do in addition to providing a blanket?

Taking the patient's temperature is the most appropriate action to take if a patient feels chilled during hemodialysis. This step is crucial because it helps determine whether the patient is experiencing an actual drop in body temperature, which could indicate a potential issue such as infection, a reaction to the dialysis, or other complications. Monitoring vital signs, including temperature, is a standard practice that aids in assessing a patient’s overall condition and helps ensure their safety.

In this scenario, monitoring the temperature allows the technician to make informed decisions based on the patient’s physiological status. If the temperature is significantly low, further medical intervention may be required. Additionally, closely assessing the situation through vital signs will guide any necessary adjustments or alert the healthcare team to potential problems.

In contrast, reducing the blood flow rate could lead to inadequate dialysis effectiveness and potentially worsen the patient's condition. Increasing bicarbonate concentration has no direct relation to managing the sensation of feeling chilled and is not generally indicated in such an acute situation. The Trendelenburg position is typically used to help manage symptoms related to low blood pressure rather than addressing chills, making it unsuitable in this context. Taking the patient's temperature is a direct and beneficial way to assess and respond to the onset of chills.