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

Untreated azotemia, which signifies an accumulation of nitrogen-containing compounds such as urea in the blood, can lead to serious complications, with uremic encephalopathy being one of them. Uremic encephalopathy occurs when toxic substances build up in the bloodstream due to the kidneys' inability to filter and excrete waste products effectively. This condition manifests as neurological symptoms, including confusion, altered mental status, and even seizures, reflecting the severe impact of uremic toxins on brain function.

While other complications can arise from untreated azotemia, such as hypertension or heart palpitations, they do not directly stem from the cognitive and neurological deterioration that characterizes uremic encephalopathy. Therefore, the connection between untreated azotemia and impaired mental status, clearly noted in uremic encephalopathy, emphasizes why this outcome is particularly consequential when considering the overall effects of untreated kidney dysfunction.