What risk is increased by improperly primed dialyzers and blood lines?

Improperly primed dialyzers and blood lines can significantly increase the risk of air embolism and clotting in the dialyzer. When a dialyzer is not adequately primed, it may contain air bubbles that can enter the bloodstream, leading to an air embolism, which is a serious condition that can obstruct blood flow to vital organs. Additionally, insufficient priming can lead to the formation of clots within the dialyzer. Clots can obstruct the flow of blood, impair the dialysis process, and potentially cause damage to the dialyzer and the patient's vascular access.

In contrast, the other options address risks that do not directly stem from the improper priming of these components. Infection and allergic reactions are related to other factors, such as hygiene practices or patient sensitivities, while fluid overload and dehydration typically involve issues with fluid management rather than the priming process. Likewise, incorrect dialysis dosage is more associated with settings and adjustments made to the machine rather than the state of the primed circuit.