What is the process of dialysis?

The process of dialysis is fundamentally about removing dissolved substances from the body by filtration. It is a medical treatment used primarily when a person's kidneys are unable to effectively filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. During dialysis, blood is drawn from the body, passed through a dialysis machine where it is filtered to remove toxins, then returned to the body. This process mimics the natural function of healthy kidneys, ensuring that substances like urea, creatinine, and excess electrolytes are removed, maintaining a safe balance of bodily fluids and chemical levels.

The other options refer to different medical processes. For example, measuring blood pressure is a vital sign assessment and does not involve the removal of substances. The administration of intravenous medications pertains to delivering drugs directly into the bloodstream, while physical rehabilitation focuses on helping patients recover physical function rather than filtering blood or removing waste. Each of these areas serves an important role in patient care, but they are distinct from the specific process of dialysis and its purpose in treating kidney-related health issues.