Certified Hemodialysis Technician Practice Exam 2025 - Free Hemodialysis Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

The dialysate compartment surrounds the fibers in a dialyzer. In hemodialysis, the dialyzer, often referred to as an artificial kidney, consists of numerous hollow fibers that are designed to facilitate the exchange of waste products and fluids. The blood compartment is where the patient's blood flows through the fibers, while the dialysate compartment surrounds these fibers and contains a special fluid that helps remove waste and excess electrolytes from the blood through a process called diffusion.

The design of the dialyzer allows for the dialysate solution to flow over the outside of the fibers, maximizing the surface area for exchange while keeping the patient’s blood separate and safe. This is crucial for effective dialysis treatment, enabling the removal of toxins while retaining essential blood components. The terms "access compartment" and "both compartments" are not applicable in this context, as they do not accurately describe the specific areas adjacent to the fibers in the dialyzer. Thus, understanding the role of the dialysate compartment is vital in appreciating how dialysis functions effectively.