Why is bicarbonate-buffered dialysate used in PD?

• A. It reduces glucose load
• B. It decreases acid-base balance
• C. It increases ultrafiltration
• D. It helps correct metabolic acidosis and improves acid-base balance.

Answer: (D)

Metabolic acidosis is common in kidney failure, and dialysis aims to restore the body’s acid-base balance. Bicarbonate-buffered dialysate provides bicarbonate directly, which diffuses into the bloodstream and neutralizes excess hydrogen ions. This improves the overall acid-base status by increasing the serum bicarbonate and raising pH toward normal. Unlike options that mention reducing glucose load or altering ultrafiltration, buffering mainly changes acid-base status, not the osmotic drive or glucose amount. By correcting acidosis, bicarbonate-buffered dialysate supports better metabolic and bone health and overall well-being in PD patients.