Which symptoms will alert dialysis personnel that a patient is experiencing a Type A dialyzer reaction?

The correct response highlights a combination of symptoms that are particularly indicative of a Type A dialyzer reaction, specifically dyspnea, back pain, and a sense of impending doom.

In a Type A dialyzer reaction, the patient may exhibit respiratory distress (dyspnea) coupled with physical discomfort (back pain) and a psychological sensation of impending doom, which often reflects the patient's acute awareness of their sudden change in condition. This particular combination of symptoms signals an immediate response to a critical situation, reinforcing the need for prompt intervention.

The inclusion of a sense of impending doom is essential as it is a hallmark of severe reactions and indicates that the patient is experiencing significant distress. Understanding this asymptomatic manifestation aids in recognizing the severity of the reaction, which can escalate quickly if not addressed.

While hypotension is a serious concern during dialysis and is associated with other types of reactions, its absence from the correct answer emphasizes the distinctive nature of a Type A dialyzer reaction. Therefore, recognizing the three primary symptoms—dyspnea, back pain, and a sense of impending doom—is crucial for dialysis personnel to provide timely and effective care.