Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test 2025 - Free Dialysis Nurse Practice Questions and Study Guide

A common complication of poorly managed hypertension in patients with chronic kidney disease is glomerulosclerosis, which refers to the scarring or hardening of the glomeruli, the filtering units within the kidneys. Chronic hypertension increases the pressure in these delicate structures, leading to damage over time. This damage results in a decreased ability of the kidneys to filter waste from the blood effectively.

The continuous high pressure can cause changes in the blood vessels supplying the kidneys, ultimately leading to a reduction in kidney function. As glomeruli become sclerosed, they lose their normal structure and function, which can worsen as the disease progresses. This condition often accelerates the decline in renal function and increases the risk of kidney failure.

Effective management of blood pressure is crucial in patients with chronic kidney disease to prevent such complications and to preserve kidney function as long as possible. Regular monitoring and treatment aimed at keeping hypertension under control can significantly reduce the risk of glomerulosclerosis.