Definition
Dialysis is a method of removing toxic substances (impurities or wastes) from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so.
Other Names
Artificial kidneys; Hemodialysis; Peritoneal dialysis; Renal replacement therapy
How the Test is Performed
Dialysis can be performed using several different methods.
PERITONEAL DIALYSIS
Peritoneal dialysis filters waste using the peritoneal membrane inside the abdomen. The abdomen is filled with special solutions that help remove toxins. The solutions remain in the abdomen for a time, and then are drained out. This form of dialysis can be performed at home, but must be done every day.
HEMODIALYSIS
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Definition
Dialysis is a method of removing toxic substances (impurities or wastes) from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so.
Considerations
Take the following precautions if you are using an AVF or AVG:
- Do not allow anyone to take a blood pressure reading on an arm with the access.
- Do not use creams or lotions over the access site.
- Do not wear tight clothing around the access site.
- Observe the access site after dialysis, watching for swelling, infection, or bleeding.
- Routinely check the access site for the "thrill," indicating that the AV site is still functioning. (If the thrill disappears, call your health care provider immediately.)
- When you sleep, avoid placing pressure on an arm with the access (if the graft or fistula clots, you may need a new one).
If you have an external access, take these ...
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Other Names
Artificial kidneys; Hemodialysis; Peritoneal dialysis; Renal replacement therapy
How the Test will Feel
Because dialysis takes several hours, it may be tedious. With children, it is especially important to have games, something to read, or other distractions.
How to Prepare for the Test
It is important to stick to the diet and medicines prescribed by the dialysis staff and your kidney specialist (nephrologist).
The health care provider will make the following assessments before beginning the hemodialysis procedure:
- Blood pressure
- Breathing rate
- Chest assessment
- Examination of venous access
- Heart rate
- Temperature
- Weight
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Risks
The immediate risks include:
- A small bubble of air in the blood that travels to a blood vessel in another part of the body (air embolism)
- Bleeding from the access site
- Cramps
- Dialyzer reaction
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Infection
- Irregular heartbeat or ischemia
- Low blood pressure ( hypotension )
- Nausea and vomiting
Long-term risks include:
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References
Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine . 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.