An access site disconnection system and method are disclosed. Radio
frequency transmitters and receivers are placed near an access site. When
a patient receives dialysis treatment, wetness may arise from blood if
the access needle becomes disconnected from the access site.
Radio-frequency transmitters are mounted on or near gauze or other
absorbent material placed adjacent the access site, as are
radio-frequency receivers. After the sensors are placed, the dialysis
machine and radio-frequency control circuit may be initialized or
baselined, and dialysis treatment, such as hemodialysis, begun. If blood
leaks from the access site, such as if the access needle is dislodged,
the blood attenuates the radio frequency transmissions, which are
detected by the receivers. A signal is sent to a controller or to an
output device to raise an alert or sound an alarm.