Dialysis water (ultra-pure water) comes into contact with the patient's blood during the procedure and is used to transport waste products out of the body. Therefore, it is essential for the water used to be of high quality. According to ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards, the electrical conductivity of dialysis water should fall within the range of this value <25 μS/cm (microsiemens per centimeter). Additionally, the water must be purified from bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Techniques such as deionization and reverse osmosis are used to meet these high-quality standards.
To ensure the continuous quality of the water used in dialysis centers, regular maintenance and repair of the dialysis water purification systems are necessary. These systems typically involve stages such as deionization of water, carbon filtration, microfiltration, and reverse osmosis for purification. Reverse osmosis is an effective method where water is purified based on the permeability of membranes under high pressure. Regularly checking and maintaining these stages are of critical importance in preserving water quality.
The daily water consumption in a dialysis center is substantial. An average dialysis hospital, unit, or center can use approximately 4,000 to 6,000 liters of water per day. While the quality of this water is vital for each patient's treatment, it also serves as a determining factor in ensuring the high efficiency of the water purification systems.
The Importance of Dialysis Water:
The quality of water used during dialysis treatment is of vital importance for the patient's ability to sustain essential bodily functions. The use of inadequately purified water can negatively impact the patient's health and affect treatment outcomes adversely. Dialysis water must meet a specific quality standard that ensures the absence of harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, and minerals. Therefore, regular purification, maintenance, and repair of dialysis water are essential.
The necessary standards can be listed as follows:
- AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) Standards
- ISO 13959
- USP (United States Pharmacopeia) Standards
- EP (European Pharmacopoeia) Standards
- National and Regional Health Authorities' Standards
- Dialysis Water Purification Device Regulation (SGM/YG-2021/14)
- TS EN ISO 23500
- Turkish Pharmacopoeia (TF) Standards
The dialysis water system must conform to specific standards based on the conditions and requirements of the installation area.
ELECTROCHEMICAL QUALITY PARAMETERS:
- Conductivity: Measurement of minerals and ions in water, indicating water purity.
- Resistance: Inverse of conductivity, representing the water's resistance.
- pH Value: Level of acidity or alkalinity in water.
- Free Chlorine: Amount of free chlorine in water, indicating disinfection effectiveness.
MICROBIOLOGICAL QUALITY PARAMETERS:
- Colony Count: Number of bacteria and microorganisms in water.
- Endotoxin: Presence of bacterial-derived toxins.
CHEMICAL CONTAMINANTS:
- Chloramine: Amount of chloramine used for water disinfection.
- Other Chemical Pollutants: Presence of harmful chemicals like heavy metals.
WATER PURITY AND TREATMENT PARAMETERS:
- Particle Contamination: Size and density of foreign particles in water.
- Organic Matter: Presence of organic compounds in water.
WATER PRESSURE AND FLOW DATA:
- Water Pressure: System's pumping status for water.
- Water Flow Rate: Flow rate of water used during treatment.
SYSTEM PERFORMANCE DATA:
- Water Purification Efficiency: Level of purification provided by the system.
- Waste Water Ratio: Amount of waste water compared to purified water.
- System Status: Identification of possible malfunctions, performance issues, etc.
In the production of pure water for dialysis systems, the above-mentioned parameters should be considered. RIVAMED produces suitable solutions for hemodialysis water purification systems by adhering to these parameters and standards.
The Importance of Maintenance in Hemodialysis Treatment
Dialysis water purification systems are technologically complex devices. These devices continuously purify water to make it suitable for patients' needs. However, over time, the water purification process can lead to wear and accumulation of contaminants within the device. This, in turn, can negatively affect the system's performance. Regular maintenance plays a critical role in sustaining the optimal performance of these devices. Maintenance tasks encompass monitoring water quality, cleaning filters, and replacing them as needed. Additionally, by observing the overall condition of the device, potential issues can be detected in advance, preventing more severe problems from arising.
Hemodialysis water purification systems are devices that operate continuously and are subjected to intensive use. This situation can lead to wear, deterioration, and malfunctions in the components of the device over time. If necessary repairs are not conducted promptly to ensure the proper functioning of the device, it can adversely affect patients' treatment processes. A faulty system could result in inadequate water purification and the introduction of harmful substances that could endanger the patient's health. Therefore, regular maintenance at specified intervals and proper execution of repair procedures play a significant role in ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of hemodialysis water purification systems.
The Rivamed technical service team operates with superior precision in the maintenance and repair of hemodialysis water purification systems, adhering to appropriate quality and standards. With a strong focus on patient health, our team provides 24/7 service through a technical support network established not only within Turkey but also globally, collaborating with domestic and international partners.
PATIENT SAFETY AND QUALITY STANDARDS
Hemodialysis water purification systems play an essential role in ensuring patient safety and treatment quality. To safeguard patient well-being and meet both national and international quality standards, regular maintenance and repairs of these systems hold significant importance. These measures enhance the effectiveness of healthcare services while providing patients with the best treatment experience.
At RIVAMED, we take technical excellence in water purification systems to the next level. Our expert team meticulously works through the processes from system design to maintenance. Our industry experience and technical expertise aim to maintain the highest level of patient safety and deliver optimal treatment conditions.
For healthcare institutions and patients alike, overlooking the regular maintenance and repairs of water purification systems can lead to suboptimal results. As Riva Engineering, we take pride in the accomplishments of our technical experts and ensure quality at every stage of water purification systems. By partnering with us, you can take the right step toward delivering the best healthcare service.
It should be noted that regular maintenance and repair of hemodialysis water purification systems are critical not only for patient safety but also for the success of healthcare institutions. At Riva Engineering, we are fully aware of this responsibility and are committed to delivering top-tier quality at all times.
Regularly inspecting, cleaning, and repairing hemodialysis water purification systems is necessary to safeguard patients' health. Healthcare institutions should provide regular maintenance and repair services for these systems to offer the best treatment conditions to their patients. Simultaneously, patients should understand the condition and quality of water purification systems as part of their treatment process and collaborate with healthcare professionals to receive safe and effective dialysis treatment.
Periodic maintenance in hemodialysis water purification systems involves regular checks of components, cleaning, and necessary maintenance procedures to ensure the system operates effectively and safely.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PERIODIC MAINTENANCE:
Regular periodic maintenance of hemodialysis water purification systems ensures the system operates in a healthy and safe manner. This maintenance helps prevent system malfunctions, preserves water quality, and ensures patient safety. Furthermore, periodic maintenance allows for the early detection of potential issues within the system, preventing larger failures and associated costs.
STEPS OF PERIODIC MAINTENANCE:
- System Checks: The overall condition of the system, water pressure levels, temperature, and other parameters should be regularly inspected.
- Filter Cleaning or Replacement: Filters play a crucial role in water purification. Therefore, filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly as needed.
- Deionization Resin Regeneration: Chemical materials are used to remove ions from the water in such systems. These chemicals, referred to as resins, need to be regularly regenerated.
- Chemical Cleaning: Chemical cleaning procedures can be carried out to remove mineral deposits or contaminants that may accumulate in the system.
- Water Quality Testing: Water quality should be regularly tested to ensure it meets the quality standards.
- Devices and Connection Points: Device connection points should be checked for leaks and functionality.
- Record Keeping: Maintenance procedures and test results should be documented. At Rivamed, we maintain records of whether our systems undergo maintenance and repair procedures as per the relevant forms, surveys prepared by our technical team, and through our dedicated software.
Chemical Usage:
During periodic maintenance of hemodialysis water purification systems, certain chemicals may be used. These chemicals aim to purify, clean, and remove mineral deposits from the water and the system.
o Acid and Alkali: Acid and alkali solutions can be used to remove mineral deposits and balance the pH of the water.
o Biocidal Agents: Biocidal substances can be used to prevent the growth of bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms.
o Resin Cleaners: Resin cleaners can be used for the regeneration of deionization resins.
o Rust Removers: Rust removers can be used to prevent corrosion and rust in the system.
o Anti-Tartar Chemicals: Anti-tartar chemicals can be used to prevent the accumulation of tartar and limescale.
In general, considering the maintenance and repair period of water purification systems:
Daily Maintenance:
- Monitor water flow and pressure, and investigate the source of any abnormal changes if detected.
- Ensure the proper functioning of automation systems, if present.
- Perform visual inspections to detect any leaks or potential external contaminants in the water purification system.
Weekly Maintenance:
- Check the condition of filters and clean or replace them as needed.
- Clean the water storage tank to prevent the accumulation of dirt and sediment. Take all necessary measures to prevent bacterial contamination.
- Inspect the operation of valves and perform maintenance if necessary.
Monthly Maintenance:
- Check the condition of filters, membranes, and other important components, and replace them if needed.
- Inspect connections and seals, and check their tightness.
- Test automation and control systems, and make adjustments if necessary.
3-6 Month Maintenance:
- Water membranes and other important components may need cleaning or replacement.
- Check the condition of pressurized vessels and adjust pressure settings if necessary.
- Inspect electrical connections and components, and tighten or replace them if needed.
Yearly Maintenance:
- Perform a comprehensive cleaning of the entire system and clean water purification components.
- Revise the entire water purification system and replace worn or damaged parts as necessary.
- Test water quality and system performance, and make improvements if needed.
The maintenance and repair frequency of hemodialysis water purification systems can vary based on hospital or medical facility policies, manufacturer recommendations, and local regulations. However, in general, periodic maintenance and repair of hemodialysis water purification systems are crucial for ensuring patient safety, maintaining system efficiency, and ensuring long-lasting operation.
REGULAR CLEANING AND DISINFECTION:
- It is necessary to clean and disinfect the internal and external surfaces of the system.
- Especially the water storage tank, filters, membranes, and pipelines should be cleaned and disinfected at regular intervals.
FILTER REPLACEMENT:
- Pre-filters and membrane filtration units should be replaced at regular intervals. The replacement frequency should be determined according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
MEMBRANE CHECK:
- The performance of membrane filtration units should be regularly checked. Factors such as pressure drop, water quality, and filtration rate should be monitored.
SENSOR CHECKS:
- The system's sensors for water pressure, temperature, conductivity, and other parameters should be checked at regular intervals.
WATER QUALITY ANALYSES:
- The quality of hemodialysis water should be monitored through microbiological and chemical analyses.
- Parameters like pH, chlorine, and bacterial levels should be regularly measured.
WATER STORAGE TANK CLEANING:
- The water storage tank should be regularly emptied, cleaned, and disinfected.
WATER LEAKS AND SPILLS:
- Checking for water leaks and spills in the system is important. Immediate action should be taken when leaks are detected.
SPARE PART CHECK:
- The condition of critical and spare parts should be regularly checked and replaced as needed.
MAINTENANCE RECORD KEEPING:
- Keeping records of maintenance and repairs, including dates, performed tasks, and details of used parts, is important.
PROFESSIONAL MAINTENANCE AND TRAINING:
- Adherence to the periodic maintenance plans determined by the system's manufacturer or authorized service is crucial.
- Operators should be trained on how to use the system and how to troubleshoot simple issues.
In conclusion, periodic maintenance in hemodialysis water purification systems is an essential step to ensure their healthy and safe operation. These maintenance tasks should be performed regularly, water quality should be tested, and the system should be cleaned using chemical substances when necessary. This approach ensures the safety of patients and the effectiveness of treatment. RIVAMED is capable of providing 24/7 emergency intervention and uninterrupted service for the necessary maintenance, repair, and technical service requirements of hemodialysis water purification systems.