If a patient presents with a pulse rate of 44/min but shows no distress, what should a dialysis technician do first?

In a situation where a patient has a low pulse rate of 44 beats per minute but exhibits no distress, the first action a dialysis technician should take is to notify the registered nurse (RN). This is critical because bradycardia (a slower than normal heart rate) can indicate potential underlying cardiac issues, and even if the patient is asymptomatic at the moment, it is important to have a healthcare professional assess the situation.

The RN has the training and authority to evaluate the patient further, determine if any immediate interventions are necessary, and may need to monitor the patient more closely or provide specific orders based on the patient's overall clinical picture. This communication protocol is essential in the healthcare setting to ensure patient safety and proper monitoring during dialysis treatment.

Other options such as administering fluids or continuing with the treatment could potentially overlook an important medical concern that requires further assessment. Documenting findings is also important but should typically follow after notifying the RN to ensure that patient safety is prioritized. Thus, involving the RN first is the appropriate course of action in this scenario.