Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Resource for Exam Success!

Swelling in extremities is a common symptom of fluid overload in dialysis patients due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body's tissues. This condition, known as edema, occurs when the kidneys are unable to adequately remove fluids and waste from the body, resulting in an increased volume of fluid in the vascular and interstitial spaces. In dialysis patients, fluid overload can occur between treatments, especially if they have a high fluid intake or if the dialysis session is not adequately removing fluid.

Edema can manifest as noticeable swelling in the hands, feet, and legs, and it often prompts a healthcare provider to adjust fluid removal targets during dialysis sessions. Recognizing swelling as a sign of fluid overload is essential for managing the patient’s fluid balance and preventing complications such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, or pulmonary edema.

In contrast, conditions like dry skin may occur for various reasons but are not directly indicative of fluid overload. High energy levels and increased urine output are also not symptoms of fluid overload; in fact, increased urine output would typically suggest good kidney function and a lack of fluid retention.