Question 1: Define dialysis and explain its purpose in maintaining homeostasis.

Answer: Dialysis is a medical process that removes waste products, excess salts, and water from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so, thereby helping to maintain a stable internal environment.

Question 2: Describe how a dialysis machine mimics the function of healthy kidneys.

Answer: A dialysis machine filters the blood through a semi-permeable membrane, allowing waste products, excess salts, and water to pass out while retaining essential substances, thus replicating kidney function.

Question 1: A patient’s blood volume is approximately 5 litres. During dialysis, 2 litres of waste fluid are removed over 4 hours. Calculate the rate of fluid removal in millilitres per hour.

Answer: 500 ml per hour

Question 2: If the concentration of urea in the blood before dialysis is 15 mmol/L and after dialysis it is 2 mmol/L, what is the percentage reduction in urea concentration?

Answer: 86.7%

Question 1: List three safety precautions that must be observed during a dialysis session.

Answer: Ensuring sterile equipment, monitoring blood flow to prevent air bubbles, and checking for signs of infection or complications.

Question 2: Identify the variables that need to be controlled during dialysis to ensure patient safety and effective treatment.

Answer: Blood flow rate, dialysate composition, temperature, and duration of treatment.

Question 1: A patient’s urea levels before dialysis are measured at 16 mmol/L, and after a 4-hour session, they are 3 mmol/L. Describe what this data indicates about the effectiveness of the dialysis treatment.

Answer: The significant reduction in urea levels indicates that the dialysis effectively removed waste products from the blood, helping to restore a healthier internal balance.

Question 1: Explain why dialysis is considered a vital treatment for patients with kidney failure, including its benefits and limitations.

Answer: Dialysis is vital for patients with kidney failure because it performs the essential functions of the kidneys, such as removing waste products, excess salts, and water, which are crucial for maintaining homeostasis. It helps prevent the build-up of toxins that can cause severe health issues. However, dialysis has limitations, including its temporary nature, the need for regular treatments (usually several times a week), potential complications like infections or blood clots, and the fact that it does not fully replicate all kidney functions such as hormone production.

Question 1: Discuss how advancements in dialysis technology could improve patient outcomes and what challenges might still need to be addressed.

Answer: Advances such as portable or wearable dialysis devices could increase mobility and convenience for patients, improving quality of life. Improvements in biocompatible membranes and automation could enhance treatment safety and efficiency. Challenges include high costs, ensuring consistent performance, and developing solutions for long-term use without complications.