There are several alternative names used for dialysis that include artificial kidneys, AV fistula, AV graft, hemodialysis, and peritoneal dialysis. Dialysis is performed to remove contaminants from the blood that could, and eventually, result in death in the absence of kidney function. The kidneys function as filters for the blood, removing products of amino acid breakdown. More than that, they serve to reclaim and regulate body water, maintain electrolyte balance, and ensure that the blood pH remains between 7.35 and 7.45. Without the function of the kidney, life is not possible (http://content.health.msn.com/content/asset/adam_test_av_graft).

Dialysis serves to replace some of the functions of the kidney. Since dialysis is not a constant ongoing process, it cannot serve as a constant monitor as do normal functioning kidneys, but it can eliminate waste products and restore electro

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Blood pressure medications are frequently withheld 6 to 12 hours before homodialysis, as are water-soluble vitamins. Also, it is best to eat before treatment, since dialysis can take 4 to 5 hours and you will not be permitted to eat during the procedure. Just before the health care provider begins the hemodialysis procedure, the following assessments will be made: blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, weight, chest assessment, examination of venous access, and an explanation of the procedure (http://content.health.msn.com/content/asset/adam_test_av_graft).

About two in every ten patients with renal failure can use a procedure that can be done at home called continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis instead of hemodialysis. The patient infuses a solution into the abdominal cavity through a permanently implanted tube. The solution stays in for 4 to 8 hours, while it takes up substances that would normally be excreted into urine. Then the patient drains the waste-laden solution out of the tube, replacing it with clean fluid (Shier, 781).

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