Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

What should be monitored regularly in patients undergoing dialysis?

1. Blood sugar levels

2. Body temperature

3. Weight

4. Heart rate

The correct answer is: Weight

In patients undergoing dialysis, weight is an important parameter to monitor regularly because it provides valuable insight into fluid status. Patients on dialysis often have restricted fluid intake due to their kidney impairment and need to manage fluid balance meticulously. By tracking weight, healthcare providers can identify any significant gains that may indicate fluid overload, which can lead to complications such as hypertension, shortness of breath, or edema. Monitoring weight before and after dialysis sessions helps in assessing how much fluid has been removed during treatment and allows for adjustments in dietary and fluid intake recommendations. This is crucial since excess fluid can lead to cardiovascular issues and affect overall health outcomes. While blood sugar levels, body temperature, and heart rate are important vital signs and can indicate other health issues, they do not directly reflect the effectiveness of dialysis treatment and fluid management as weight does. Thus, consistent monitoring of weight is essential to ensure the well-being of patients during their dialysis journey.