Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Dialyzer Reprocessing and Reuse 3

Question 1

Which type of dialyzer membrane is most commonly used in modern hemodialysis and associated with improved biocompatibility?

Accepted Answer

High-flux synthetic (polysulfone, polyethersulfone)

Answer

High-flux synthetic membranes like polysulfone offer superior biocompatibility, higher middle-molecule clearance, and lower complement activation compared to cellulosic membranes.

Question 2

The ultrafiltration coefficient (KUF) of a dialyzer describes:

Accepted Answer

The amount of fluid removed per mmHg transmembrane pressure per hour

Answer

KUF measures dialyzer water permeability: milliliters of fluid transferred per hour per mmHg of transmembrane pressure, distinguishing low-flux from high-flux dialyzers.

Question 3

First-use syndrome (type A anaphylactic reaction) during hemodialysis is most classically associated with which dialyzer membrane type?

Accepted Answer

Ethylene oxide-sterilized AN69 membranes in patients on ACE inhibitors

Answer

AN69 membranes can adsorb blood contact factor XII activating bradykinin, and ACE inhibitors prevent bradykinin breakdown, causing severe anaphylactic reactions.

Question 4

Reuse of dialyzers in the United States is regulated by which federal agency?

Accepted Answer

CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) via Conditions for Coverage

Answer

CMS regulates dialyzer reuse through the ESRD Conditions for Coverage, requiring facilities to follow AAMI standards for safe reprocessing practices.

Question 5

The primary reason high-flux dialyzers require ultrapure dialysate is:

Accepted Answer

Their large pore size allows back-filtration of dialysate into the blood compartment

Answer

High-flux membranes can allow dialysate to back-filter into the blood compartment due to transmembrane pressure gradients, making dialysate purity critical to prevent endotoxin transfer.

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Dialyzer Reprocessing and Reuse 3