How is the ultrafiltration rate determined for a dialysis session?

• A. Based on blood pressure alone.
• B. Based on the patient's dry weight, target fluid removal, and tolerance to UF; set to achieve dry weight without causing hypotension.
• C. Based on dialysate temperature.
• D. Based on age.

Answer: (B)

Ultrafiltration rate is determined by how much fluid needs to be removed to reach the patient’s dry weight and how well they tolerate fluid removal during the session. Practically, you estimate the fluid to remove as current weight minus dry weight, then divide that amount by the dialysis time to get the UF rate (mL/hour). The goal is to achieve dry weight without causing intradialytic hypotension or other symptoms, so the rate is adjusted based on the patient’s tolerance. Blood pressure is monitored to detect intolerance, but it doesn’t set the UF rate. Dialysate temperature or age don’t determine UF rate.