Importance

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Abstract

A technique for automatically cleaning, disinfecting and otherwise preparing a dialysis machine includes a method and apparatus for programming the dialysis machine to awaken from a reduced power mode at a predetermined time and perform one of several wake-up procedures (e.g., rinsing, dialysate preparation, or hot water or chemical disinfection). A wake-up time and a corresponding wake-up procedure is preferably programmed for each day of the week. If disinfection is programmed, the machine wakes up at the predetermined time to heat the water or mix the chemicals before pumping the cleaning/disinfecting liquid through the dialysis machine. The machine then rinses the cleaning/disinfecting liquid down a waste drain. If a chemical solution is utilized, the dialysis machine may be programmed to allow the chemical solution to dwell within the dialysis machine for a predetermined period before rinsing it down the drain. The apparatus includes an input/output device, a microprocessor and a non-volatile memory system for programing and storing the desired wake-up times and cleaning/disinfecting procedures. The automatic nature of the method and apparatus allow a dialysis machine operator to prepare the dialysis machine prior to leaving at the end of the day so that the machine automatically cleans and disinfects itself or starts to prepare dialysate before the start of the next day. Sensors within the dialysis machine may determine whether the machine is properly configured for the desired wake-up procedure before the operator leaves at the end of the day.

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First Claim