Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

Hemodialysis plays a critical role in the management of kidney disease, particularly in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or severe acute kidney injury. The fundamental purpose of hemodialysis is to replicate some of the filtering functions of healthy kidneys by removing waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood. In individuals with compromised kidney function, the kidneys are unable to efficiently filter these substances on their own. By utilizing a dialysis machine, blood is drawn from the body, runs through a dialyzer (artificial kidney), and then is returned to the body after being cleaned.

This process is crucial not only for maintaining metabolic balance but also for preventing the toxic buildup of substances like urea and creatinine, which can cause serious complications. Additionally, hemodialysis helps regulate electrolyte levels and fluid volume, supporting the overall health of patients with significant kidney dysfunction.

The other choices, while they may involve aspects of kidney disease management, do not accurately describe the primary role of hemodialysis. For instance, while hypertension can be related to kidney disease and managed through various means, hemodialysis is not solely aimed at preventing hypertension. Furthermore, dietary calcium intake is not directly influenced by hemodialysis, and