Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

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What is a common side effect of rapid dialysis in patients?

Dizziness and vertigo
Fatigue and lethargy
Headache, nausea, and vomiting
Insomnia and restlessness

The correct answer is: Headache, nausea, and vomiting

Rapid dialysis can lead to significant shifts in fluid and electrolytes, which may provoke a range of symptoms. Among these, headache, nausea, and vomiting are commonly observed as side effects. These symptoms arise due to sudden changes in blood volume and the rapid removal of toxins and waste products. When the body undergoes such abrupt alterations, it can trigger an imbalance that affects the central nervous system, leading to headaches, while nausea and vomiting may result from increased stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract or as a reaction to the stress placed on the system. Additionally, during rapid dialysis, the body can experience a phenomenon known as "dialysis disequilibrium syndrome," further contributing to these symptoms. This syndrome is characterized by the rapid removal of urea and other small molecules from the blood, potentially causing cerebral edema due to osmotic imbalances. As a result, the correct answer aligns with the physiological responses seen during or immediately after this procedure.