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

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is considered a form of continuous dialysis because it involves the ongoing exchange of dialysate in the peritoneal cavity throughout the day. In this method, patients typically perform multiple exchanges of dialysate that allow the removal of waste products and excess fluid continuously, enabling more stable control of fluid and electrolyte balance.

This method distinguishes itself by being patient-driven and not requiring a machine to operate continuously, allowing individuals greater flexibility in their daily lives while still ensuring that their dialysis treatment is happening on a continuous basis. This modality is particularly beneficial for those who need to maintain daily activities without being tethered to a machine.

In contrast, hemodialysis, while effective, is generally performed in sessions lasting several hours, usually three times a week, therefore not continuous. Intermittent peritoneal dialysis differs from continuous methods as well as it isn't performed continuously throughout the day or week. Plasmapheresis is a separate therapeutic procedure and does not fall under the category of dialysis for the treatment of end-stage renal failure.