CHBT Dialysate Composition and Chemistry

Question 1

What is the purpose of bicarbonate in hemodialysis dialysate?

Accepted Answer

To correct metabolic acidosis by providing a buffer that crosses into the patient's blood

Answer

To prevent bacterial growth in the dialysate

Answer

To remove excess potassium

Answer

To lower dialysate conductivity

Question 2

Why is glucose often added to hemodialysis dialysate?

Accepted Answer

To prevent hypoglycemia during treatment and reduce glucose loss across the membrane

Answer

To increase dialysate osmolality for ultrafiltration

Answer

To serve as an energy source for the dialyzer membrane

Answer

To inhibit bacterial growth

Question 3

What is the typical sodium concentration range in hemodialysis dialysate?

Accepted Answer

135–145 mEq/L

Answer

100–115 mEq/L

Answer

150–165 mEq/L

Answer

120–130 mEq/L

Question 4

Which ion in dialysate is primarily responsible for controlling dialysate conductivity?

Accepted Answer

Sodium

Answer

Potassium

Answer

Calcium

Answer

Bicarbonate

Question 5

What happens if dialysate calcium is set too high for a patient?

Accepted Answer

Hypercalcemia, potentially causing cardiac arrhythmias, vascular calcification, and soft tissue deposits

Answer

Hypocalcemia and tetany

Answer

Metabolic acidosis

Answer

Hemolysis

Question 6

The potassium concentration in hemodialysis dialysate is typically set at:

Accepted Answer

1–4 mEq/L, individualized to the patient's pre-dialysis serum potassium

Answer

0 mEq/L for all patients

Answer

Equal to normal plasma potassium (3.5–5.0 mEq/L) for all patients

Answer

8–10 mEq/L to prevent hypokalemia