Examination Practice Questions And

Illinois Dialysis Nurse Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which vascular access is considered the gold standard for long-term

hemodialysis?

a) Tunneled catheter

b) Peripheral IV

c) Arteriovenous fistula (AVF)

d) Arteriovenous graft (AVG)

Rationale: AVFs have the lowest infection rates and longest patency,

making them the preferred access for long-term hemodialysis.

2. The primary purpose of hemodialysis is to:

a) Replace kidney hormone production 1 / 4

b) Remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood

c) Increase blood pressure

d) Stimulate urine production

Rationale: Hemodialysis cleanses the blood of uremic toxins and

excess fluids when kidneys are not functioning adequately.

• What is the most common complication of hemodialysis?

a) Hypertension

b) Hypotension

c) Hyperglycemia

d) Hypernatremia

Rationale: Rapid fluid removal during dialysis can lead to

hypotension, which is the most frequently observed complication.

• Which electrolyte imbalance is most immediately life-threatening in

dialysis patients?

a) Hypocalcemia

b) Hypermagnesemia

c) Hyperkalemia

d) Hyponatremia

Rationale: Hyperkalemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias and requires

prompt management in dialysis patients.

• The nurse notices blood in the dialysis tubing. The first action should

be:

a) Call the nephrologist 2 / 4

b) Document and continue

c) Clamp the bloodline and assess the patient

d) Increase the blood flow rate

Rationale: Blood in the tubing may indicate bleeding or a dislodged

needle. Immediate assessment and safety measures are necessary.

• Which of the following best describes “ultrafiltration” in dialysis?

a) Removal of excess fluid from the blood

b) Removal of toxins by diffusion

c) Replacement of electrolytes

d) Acid-base correction

Rationale: Ultrafiltration is the process of removing fluid from the

blood via a pressure gradient across the dialysis membrane.

• Which dialyzer membrane type is associated with lower risk of allergic

reactions?

a) Cuprophane

b) Synthetic (e.g., polysulfone)

c) Cellulose

d) None of the above

Rationale: Synthetic membranes are more biocompatible and reduce

inflammatory and allergic reactions.

• What is the target hemoglobin level for most chronic dialysis patients?
• 6–8 g/dL
• 8–10 g/dL 3 / 4

• 10–12 g/dL
• 13–15 g/dL

Rationale: Maintaining hemoglobin between 10–12 g/dL reduces

symptoms of anemia and risk of cardiovascular events.

• Which action is essential before initiating hemodialysis?

a) Check the vascular access for patency and bruit/thrill

b) Administer antihypertensives

c) Weigh the patient only

d) Draw all labs

Rationale: Ensuring vascular access is patent and functional is crucial

to avoid complications during dialysis.

• A patient receiving hemodialysis reports chest pain and

shortness of breath. The nurse should:

a) Increase the blood flow rate

b) Stop dialysis and assess immediately

c) Document and continue

d) Lower the ultrafiltration rate

Rationale: Chest pain and dyspnea may indicate serious

complications such as myocardial ischemia or fluid overload, requiring immediate intervention.

• Which dietary restriction is critical for dialysis patients?

a) High fiber

b) Potassium restriction

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