I saw an earlier discussion on this topic, but I'm not sure there was resolution. Does anyone allow patients to use these? Does it matter if it's an AC or DC device?

A person on dialysis is extremely susceptible to electric shock. It is related to the salt and water in the dialysate and metal needles. I used to know how much more susceptible, but I can't remember the factor.

Many patients have neuropathy putting them at risk for injury if the blanket gets too hot.

Many years ago we used a device called a K pad. It sent warm water through a rubber pad. The pad couldn't get too hot, and the separate heating device reduced the chance of electric shock.

We don't allow any type of electric blanket or heating pad now. It seems to me we explored using an isolation transformer at one time, but it was just too much hassle.

Thanks nonameuno:
I remember using K Pads some years ago. Unfortunately, we couldn't provide them for all our patients so they sort of went by the way.

What about other electronic devices like DVD players, fans, laptops, televisions, and the sort? It would be easiest to disallow anything requiring AC power and allow only battery-powered devices, but I'm reluctant to refuse a patient anything that makes enduring treatment easier.

We've always said that AC devices cannot be within physical reach of a patient. I just wonder if we should say the same about DC devices that are plugged into an AC outlet.

As long as you perform an elecrtical leakage test on the blanket our clinic allows the use of them and portable dvd players,etc.

How can you preform an electrical leakage test on these devices considering that they mainly do not hav a ground plug on them.

Larry,

Most dialysis providers do not allow electric blankets, infact, they may issue individual blankets that the patients are required to up-keep. However, the provider may provide storage. Reasoning: liability. Also, check your dialysis delivery equipment manual, most manufactures request that electrical devices (cell phones, etc.) not be utilized near the machines, due to possible radio wave interference of the machine.

I hope this assists you.