What are some of the common indications for acute dialysis?

Prepare for the Anderson Hemodialysis CE Test with targeted content and in-depth questions. Boost your confidence with explanations, comprehensive guides, and essential tips to succeed in your exam!

Acute dialysis is typically indicated in situations where the patient's condition poses significant risks due to renal failure or fluid overload. The option that mentions greatly elevated BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) levels alongside acute pulmonary edema aligns with common clinical practices for initiating dialysis.

Greatly elevated BUN levels indicate a severe impairment in kidney function, suggesting that toxins are accumulating in the bloodstream because the kidneys cannot effectively filter them. This is often observed in acute kidney injury or end-stage renal disease. High levels of urea can be toxic and lead to a range of symptoms affecting multiple body systems.

Acute pulmonary edema, characterized by excess fluid in the lungs, is a critical condition requiring immediate intervention. It may occur due to fluid overload that damaged kidneys can no longer handle, leading to respiratory distress and necessitating dialysis to remove excess fluid and correct electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, when a patient presents with both greatly elevated BUN and acute pulmonary edema, it indicates a life-threatening condition that justifies urgent dialysis treatment.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the typical clinical indications for starting acute dialysis. They might include signs or conditions that do not directly warrant dialysis intervention, or they mix presentations that do not align with the urgent nature required for initiating dialysis.

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