Final answer:
The first action a nurse should take when a patient experiences leg cramps during hemodialysis is to reposition the patient to improve circulation. Hemodialysis must be performed frequently, as it replaces the kidney's function of continuously purifying the blood.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient complains of leg cramps during hemodialysis, the nurse should first reposition the patient. Leg cramps can occur due to changes in blood flow or electrolyte imbalance. Repositioning can help alleviate the cramping by improving circulation. If the cramps persist, then further investigation and interventions, such as assessing electrolyte balance or administering medications, may be necessary.
Hemodialysis Frequency:
Hemodialysis must be done frequently, usually a few times a week, because it serves as a replacement for the normal function of the kidneys. As the kidneys typically work continuously to purify the blood and remove waste products, patients with kidney failure need regular hemodialysis sessions to perform this crucial cleansing process.