NNCC Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) Certification Practice Exam

Dextrose in the dialysate acts as the osmotic agent to drive ultrafiltration, but it is also absorbed into the bloodstream. As glucose enters the circulation, blood glucose levels can rise, causing hyperglycemia, especially in patients with diabetes or limited insulin response. The amount absorbed depends on the dialysate concentration and dwell time, so higher glucose solutions and longer exchanges increase the risk. While fluid removal is the main goal of PD, the glucose load from the dialysate can contribute to hyperglycemia and even extra calories, leading to weight gain. Hypernatremia and hypovolemia are less direct consequences of the dialysate’s dextrose; hypoglycemia is unlikely since glucose is being delivered.