What action should a dialysis technician take if the alarm test for conductivity fails during the hemodialysis machine setup?

When the alarm test for conductivity fails during the hemodialysis machine setup, notifying the equipment technician is the appropriate course of action. Conductivity is a crucial factor in the proper functioning of the hemodialysis machine, as it measures the electrolyte concentrations in the dialysate. A failure in this test indicates that there may be an issue with the machine that could affect the safety and efficacy of the dialysis treatment.

By contacting the equipment technician, the technician ensures that the problem is addressed by a qualified individual who can troubleshoot and rectify the malfunction. This step is essential for ensuring patient safety and maintaining the integrity of the treatment process. Attempting to proceed with treatment without resolving the conductivity alarm could lead to serious complications for the patient, such as imbalances in electrolytes or inadequate dialysis.

Other actions, such as changing the manufacturer's default settings or clearing the alarm and starting treatment, could potentially compromise patient safety and must be avoided until the issue is resolved through proper channels. Re-bedding the carbon tanks is a maintenance task that, while important, does not directly address the immediate issue of a conductivity alarm failure and may unnecessarily postpone treatment without resolving the root problem.