What is the proper first response to an air embolism during dialysis?

The proper first response to an air embolism during dialysis is to clamp the bloodlines and stop the dialysis. This immediate action is crucial as it prevents further air from entering the vascular system and helps to stabilize the patient. Reducing further exposure to air minimizes the risk of serious complications associated with air embolism, such as stroke or cardiac arrest.

Following this initial response, additional interventions may be necessary to ensure the patient's safety and provide appropriate care. While placing the patient in the Trendelenburg position may help to reduce the impact of air embolism, it should be done after stopping dialysis and clamping the bloodlines. Calling the physician for orders is important but should follow the critical first step of stopping the dialysis machine. The Valsalva maneuver is not typically recommended as the primary response to an air embolism in this context, as it is not an immediate solution to the critical situation caused by air in the bloodstream.