Final answer:
Hemodialysis is a medical procedure used to filter waste products and excess water from the blood of patients with kidney failure. It helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. During the dialysis process, the patient's blood is filtered through a dialysis machine, which removes waste products and returns the filtered blood to the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Purpose of Hemodialysis:
Hemodialysis is a medical procedure used to filter waste products such as urea and excess water from the blood. It is used when a person's kidneys fail to remove these waste products naturally. The procedure helps to maintain the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.
Client Population:
Hemodialysis is used for patients with kidney failure or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This includes individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those awaiting kidney transplants.
The Dialysis Process:
During hemodialysis, a patient's blood is filtered externally through a machine called a dialysis machine. The blood passes through a semipermeable membrane in the machine, which allows waste products to be removed and returned to the patient's body. The process takes about 3 to 4 hours and is typically performed 3 times a week.