Question

The diagram provides an overview of how dialysis works. Using this model as an example, explain how the dialysis machine performs the function that’s normally performed by the kidneys.

Answer 1

Answer:

A dialysis machine mimics some of the functions of a human kidney. A primary job of kidneys is to remove urea and certain salts from blood so they can exit the body in urine.

A dialysis machine removes blood from the patient and runs it through tubes made of a semi-porous membrane. On the outside of the tubes is a sterile solution made of water, sugars and other components. Certain substances including red blood cells, white blood cells and other important blood components cannot fit through the pores in the membranes because those components are too large. The urea and salt, however, flow through membranes easily and are removed through the sterile solution.

Explanation:

Answer 2

Dialysis machines are artificial kidneys that perform the majority of the tasks of the kidneys in patients with permanent or temporary renal failure.

• Hemodialysis is used by machines to clean and balance the blood's contents.
• The patient's blood is cycled through the machine, which filters it and balances it for electrolytes, pH, and fluid concentration before returning it to the patient.
• The dialysate is mixed and monitored by the dialysis equipment.
• Dialysate is a fluid that aids in the removal of undesirable waste products from the bloodstream. It also aids in the replenishment of electrolytes and minerals in the body. The equipment also keeps track of the blood's flow while it's outside the body.
• To allow for high blood flow rates, the patient's blood is continually pumped from an artery, a big vein, or a surgically modified vein.
• The peristaltic blood pump monitors its pressure both upstream and downstream.
• Heparin is added to the blood before it reaches the dialyzer to prevent clotting. The heparin is delivered at a precise pace with the help of a syringe pump.
• The blood then enters the dialyzer, where it travels through a semipermeable membrane with a large surface area on one side and a dialysate solution on the other.
• To guarantee the correct movement of chemicals out of and into the blood, a pressure gradient is maintained across the membrane.
• The blood is sent via an air trap to remove any air bubbles before being returned to the patient after cleansing and balancing in the dialyzer.
• For proper machine operation and patient safety, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and sometimes hematocrit levels (blood cell concentration) are measured.
• Fresh dialysate is continuously pushed through the dialyzer during operation to ensure maximum efficacy.