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

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of hospitalization in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to the strong link between kidney function and heart health. As kidney function declines, the risk of developing cardiovascular issues increases significantly. This connection is attributed to several factors, including increased blood pressure, volume overload, and electrolyte imbalances associated with reduced kidney function.

Patients with CKD often exhibit a high prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension and diabetes, along with non-traditional factors sensitive to kidney function, including inflammatory markers and cardiovascular calcification. Therefore, they are more susceptible to events such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, which frequently lead to hospitalization.

While diabetes complications and infections are also significant concerns for CKD patients, cardiovascular issues tend to dominate the clinical picture, often resulting in more frequent and serious hospitalizations. The integration of cardiovascular health management into CKD treatment is essential for improving outcomes and reducing hospital stays.