Dialysis and Kidney Transplant

Question 1

What is haemodialysis?

Answer 1

The process of blood purification in individuals with dysfunctional kidneys (glomerular filtrations is impaired)

• Extracorporeal removal of waste products – urea and freely filtered creatinine from the blood.
• There is counter current motion between the blood and dialysate.
• Filtration occurs between the semi-permeable membrane.
• The specific components of diastyle are determined by the nephrologist, dependent on the individual – monitored.

Question 2

Which type of dialysis is performed at home?

Answer 2

Pertioneal dialysis

Question 3

How long does haemodialysis last typically during the week?

Answer 3

3-4.5 hours treatment 3 times per week

allows 4 treatment free days per week

Question 4

Which type of haemolysis is concerned with dietary constraints?

Answer 4

Haemodialysis - strictly dietary constraints and salt/water intake restrictions

Question 5

What is the access advantage with peritoneal dialysis?

Answer 5

Can travel easily – machine packs into wheelie suitcase and fluids delivered by the companies internationally.

Daytime exchanges can be done anywhere – at work etc just need to be able to wash hands.

Question 6

What type of infection risk is associated with peritoneal dialysis?

Answer 6

Chance of infection due to catheter

Peritonitis

Question 7

What is peritoneal dialysis?

Answer 7

A type of dialysis that incorporates the peritoneum as the membrane through which fluid and dissolve substances are exchanged with the blood.
• Dialysate within the peritoneal cavity (between the visceral and parietal peritoneum).
• Removes excess fluid – correct electrolyte problems and removes toxins in individuals with renal failure.
• Solution is introduced through a permanent tube in lower abdomen and then removed.

Question 8

What are the main factors to consider when doing a live kidney donor transplant?

Answer 8

Family history of kidney disease
Age
Two healthy kidneys
Financial stability 
Mental health history 
Future pregnancy
Kidney match 
Comorbidities

Question 9

How is a kidney match made (3)?

Answer 9

Blood type compatibility
HLA typing
Serum cross match

Question 10

During kidney transplantation, the renal artery of the transplanted kidney is connected to which artery?

Answer 10

External iliac artery of the recipient rather than the abdominal aorta

Question 11

Which vein is the renal vein of the transplanted kidney connected to?

Answer 11

External iliac vein

Question 12

What is not recommended in patients with a kidney transplant?

Answer 12

No live vaccines
No alcohol 
No recreational drugs
No NSAIDs/Herbal medicines
No smoking
No seville oranges or tacrolimus
raw eggs, raw meat, undercooked fish and unpasteurised cheese