Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a consequence of inadequate dialysis?

1. Improved blood pressure

2. Decreased muscle mass

3. Fluid overload

4. Increased energy levels

The correct answer is: Fluid overload

Inadequate dialysis can lead to fluid overload, which occurs when the kidneys are unable to remove excess fluid from the body. This can happen when dialysis treatments are insufficient in clearing waste products and excess fluids. As a result, patients may experience swelling, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart problems. Fluid overload is significant because it affects not just the patient's physical well-being but also their overall health status. It can lead to serious complications such as pulmonary edema, congestive heart failure, and increased hospitalization rates. Maintaining proper fluid balance is critical in dialysis patients to avoid these complications and ensure optimal health outcomes. The other options, while they may reflect symptoms or conditions encountered in dialysis patients, do not accurately represent the consequences of inadequate dialysis. For instance, decreased muscle mass can occur in patients for various reasons, but it is not a direct consequence unique to inadequate dialysis. Similarly, improved blood pressure and increased energy levels typically indicate better health and treatment efficacy rather than a result of inadequate care.