NCCT Hemodialysis Technician 3

Question 1

A hemodialysis patient's 'dry weight' is defined as:

Accepted Answer

The patient's target weight without excess fluid retention, at which the patient is euvolemic

Answer

Dry weight (target weight) is the lowest weight a patient can tolerate without symptoms of dehydration, representing a state of normal fluid balance with no edema or hypertension from fluid overload.

Question 2

Which clinical presentation is most indicative of an air embolism during hemodialysis?

Accepted Answer

Sudden chest pain, coughing, dyspnea, and cyanosis

Answer

Air embolism presents acutely with chest pain, cough, and cyanosis as air enters the venous circulation and obstructs pulmonary blood flow; it requires immediate clamping of the venous line and patient positioning.

Question 3

What is the recommended blood flow rate (Qb) for most adult hemodialysis patients?

Accepted Answer

200–400 mL/min

Answer

A blood flow rate of 200–400 mL/min is standard for adult hemodialysis, balancing adequate solute clearance with hemodynamic stability and access flow capacity.

Question 4

Which dietary restrictions are most critical for patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis?

Accepted Answer

Low potassium and low phosphorus intake

Answer

Hemodialysis patients must restrict potassium (to prevent arrhythmias) and phosphorus (to prevent renal osteodystrophy and cardiovascular calcification) because the kidneys can no longer excrete these minerals.

Question 5

When palpating an AV fistula, the term 'thrill' refers to:

Accepted Answer

A buzzing or vibrating sensation felt on palpation over the fistula

Answer

A thrill is the palpable vibration over a functioning AV fistula caused by turbulent blood flow at the arteriovenous anastomosis, indicating the fistula is patent and functional.

NCCT - National Center for Competency Testing Practice Test

NCCT - National Center for Competency Testing Practice Test

NCCT Hemodialysis Technician 3