Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Medications and Pharmacology in Dialysis 2

Question 1

Which medication is used to reverse heparin anticoagulation in cases of bleeding during hemodialysis?

Accepted Answer

Protamine sulfate

Answer

Protamine sulfate binds and neutralizes heparin, rapidly reversing its anticoagulant effect.

Question 2

Cinacalcet (Sensipar) is used in dialysis patients to treat which condition?

Accepted Answer

Secondary hyperparathyroidism

Answer

Cinacalcet is a calcimimetic that sensitizes the calcium-sensing receptor on parathyroid cells, suppressing PTH secretion in secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Question 3

Which active form of vitamin D is most commonly prescribed to dialysis patients?

Accepted Answer

Calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D)

Answer

Calcitriol is the active form of vitamin D prescribed to dialysis patients because failed kidneys cannot perform the final hydroxylation step.

Question 4

What is the primary concern when administering EPO (erythropoietin) to a dialysis patient with uncontrolled hypertension?

Accepted Answer

EPO can further increase blood pressure and risk of stroke

Answer

ESA therapy can raise blood pressure and increase stroke risk, requiring blood pressure control before and during ESA administration.

Question 5

A dialysis patient taking calcium carbonate as a phosphate binder should be instructed to take it:

Accepted Answer

With meals to bind dietary phosphate

Answer

Calcium carbonate must be taken with meals to bind phosphate from food in the GI tract before it can be absorbed.

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Medications and Pharmacology in Dialysis 2