What serious side effect can occur if chlorine crosses the dialyzer membrane?

The correct answer is hemolysis. In the context of dialysis, hemolysis refers to the destruction of red blood cells, which can occur when chlorine, a potent oxidizing agent, breaches the dialyzer membrane and enters the bloodstream. The presence of chlorine can lead to oxidative damage to the red blood cell membranes, resulting in their rupture and subsequent release of hemoglobin into the plasma. This process can cause significant complications, including anemia and potential kidney injury due to the sudden influx of free hemoglobin.

Inflammation, while a potential reaction to various factors during dialysis, is not directly related to chlorine crossing the dialyzer membrane. Hypotension may occur during dialysis for a variety of reasons such as fluid removal or electrolyte imbalances but is not specifically associated with chlorine exposure. Nausea can also arise during treatment but does not have a direct causal relationship with the presence of chlorine in the bloodstream. Understanding the risks associated with chlorine and how it affects red blood cells is essential for ensuring patient safety during dialysis treatments.