Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Resource for Exam Success!

Dialysis disequilibrium syndrome is a complication that can arise during hemodialysis, particularly due to rapid changes in blood volume and composition. This syndrome is characterized by a range of symptoms, which can occur when there is an imbalance between the osmotic gradients in the blood and the dialysate during treatment. When blood is filtered too quickly, it can lead to a significant drop in blood volume and a rapid shift of water from the vessels into the tissues, resulting in cerebral edema. This can manifest as headache, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, and even neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures.

The rapid changes in blood chemistry and volume can particularly affect the central nervous system, making patients more susceptible to this syndrome. Management involves carefully monitoring the dialysis process to minimize these changes, such as adjusting the rate of fluid removal and ensuring adequate ultrafiltration rates to prevent complications.

Understanding this is critical as it underscores the importance of handling hemodialysis sessions with caution, particularly in patients who may have unstable hemodynamics or pre-existing neurological conditions.