BONENT Continuing Dialysis Education (CDC) Practice Exam

Hypotension during dialysis treatment often leads to symptoms such as nausea and lightheadedness. This occurs because a sudden drop in blood pressure can impair blood flow to the brain and other organs. As the bloodstream's oxygenation decreases, patients may experience dizziness, weakness, or nausea, signaling that they are not tolerating the dialysis well at that moment. Managing blood pressure effectively is crucial to maintaining the patient's overall comfort and safety during treatment.

The other options do not align with the typical outcomes associated with hypotension during dialysis. Improved kidney function would not result directly from a hypotensive event, as stability during the process is essential for the kidneys to benefit from the treatment. Increased risk of infection is typically associated with factors like catheter use rather than changes in blood pressure. Finally, excessive fluid retention is generally a concern when fluid removal is inadequate, which can be separate from the immediate effects of hypotension during a dialysis session.