NxStage DTK-001 Dialysate Test Kit

[PrimeTimer]

More of an opinion I guess than anything but here goes; I preferred using a vacutainer cup and test tube to draw a sample for the monthly dialysate test. Now our center (Fresenius) has us using the NxStage DTK-001 test kit. In my opinion, the DTK-001 is harder to use because you have to handle/hold both the green dialysate line (chickenfoot with the green clamps) and the test kit at the same time while also screwing on/off caps and making sure not to contaminate anything. To me, this is not only harder to perform but more steps equate to an increased risk of contamination to both the dialysate line used for treatment, in other words, risk to patient as well as contaminating the test kit. I also think that the less time that any of the connections are exposed to open air, the better. My guess tho, is that the NxStage DTK-001 test kits cost the centers less than the vacutainer cups and test tubes. I'm still new to the DTK-001 but suppose I can get use to it. 

[Simon Dog]

I've been using the DTK since starting on NxStage a bit over a year ago, but the Fresenius center I use only has me draw a dialysate sample once every 3 months.  I find the test kit easy to use.   With the quantity of vacutaners used, I doubt they cost any more than the DTK - probably less.

[PrimeTimer]

Our center has us take a dialysate sample every month to be included with my husband's monthly blood draws. We take a sample of the PAK and tap water every 3 months (filling a vacutainer cup with PAK water and a small white plastic bottle for the tap water).

[Simon Dog]

Standard at the FMC clinic I use is dialysate every 3 months; water once a year.

Our center has us take a dialysate sample every month to be included with my husband's monthly blood draws. We take a sample of the PAK and tap water every 3 months (filling a vacutainer cup with PAK water and a small white plastic bottle for the tap water).