Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

What is the role of the dialysate in hemodialysis?

1. To provide nutrients

2. To remove waste products

3. To maintain blood pressure

4. To create hypertonic solution

The correct answer is: To remove waste products

The role of the dialysate in hemodialysis is crucial, as it is specifically formulated to remove waste products from the blood. During the dialysis process, blood is diverted to a machine where it passes through a dialyzer, commonly referred to as an artificial kidney. The dialysate surrounds the hollow fibers in the dialyzer, creating a semi-permeable membrane barrier. As blood flows through the dialyzer, impurities like urea, creatinine, and excess electrolytes diffuse from the blood into the dialysate, which has a lower concentration of these waste products. This concentration gradient facilitates the transfer of these wastes from the blood into the dialysate. Ultimately, this process effectively cleanses the blood. The dialysate is carefully balanced with the correct concentration of electrolytes and other solutes, ensuring maximum efficiency in removing harmful wastes while minimizing adverse effects. The other options refer to roles that the dialysate does not serve. It does not provide nutrients, as the primary purpose is to maintain the removal of waste rather than nutrient supply. The maintenance of blood pressure is primarily managed through other mechanisms and medications, rather than the action of the dialysate. Lastly, while dialysis solutions may affect osmotic gradients