Kidney Failure Flashcards
0
Q
What is haemodialysis?
A
- in haemodialysis blood from a vein is passed into a machine that contains an artificial dialysis membrane
- heparin is added to avoid clotting and any bubbles are removed before the blood returns to the body
- usually carried out at a clinic 3 times a well for several hours each session
1
Q
What is dialysis?
A
- it removes wastes, excess fluids and salt from the blood by passing blood over a dialysis membrane
- the dialysis membrane is a partially permeable membrane that allows the exchange of substances between the blood and dialysis fluid
- this fluid contains the correct concentrations of salts, urea water and other substances in blood plasma
- any substance that is in excess in the blood diffuses across the membrane into the dialysis fluid
- any substances that are too low in concentration diffuse into the blood from the dialysis fluid
2
Q
What is peritoneal dialysis?
A
- in peritoneal dialysis (PD) the filter is the body’s own abdominal membrane (peritoneum)
- a surgeon implants a permanent tube into the abdomen
- dialysis solution is poured through the tube and fills the space between the abdominal walls and organs
- after several hours the used solution is drained from the abdomen
- usually performed in several consecutive daily sessions at home or work and patient can walk around having dialysis
3
Q
What are the advantages of a kidney transplant?
A
- freedom from time consuming dialysis
- diet is less limited
- feel better physically
- a better quality of life
4
Q
What are the disadvantages of a kidney transplant?
A
• need to take immunosuppressants
- increase susceptibility to infections
• need major surgery
- increase risk of infection, bleeding and damage to surrounding organs
5
Q
What happens when the kidneys fail completely?
A
- the body is unable to remove excess water and certain waste products from the blood e.g. Urea and excess salts
- it is also unable to regulate the levels of water and salts in the body
- death
