Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test 2026 - Free Dialysis Nurse Practice Questions and Study Guide

In patients with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), inconsistent insulin levels can lead to hyperglycemia. The kidneys play a crucial role in glucose metabolism and insulin clearance. When renal function declines, the clearance of insulin can be impaired, leading to fluctuating insulin levels in the bloodstream.

These fluctuating insulin levels can result in an inadequate response to glucose intake, causing the body to remain in a less able state to utilize glucose effectively. This is further compounded by the fact that many ESRD patients might also have underlying conditions such as diabetes, which can exacerbate hyperglycemic episodes if insulin levels are not managed properly.

Additionally, the production of counter-regulatory hormones like glucagon may also be increased in renal failure, which can further contribute to elevated blood glucose levels. Consequently, the result of these mechanisms often manifests as hyperglycemia, making this the most accurate and relevant effect of inconsistent insulin levels in ESRD patients.