What factors can decrease the K value in dialysis?

Lowering the blood flow rate (BFR) during dialysis can lead to a decrease in the K value, which is the clearance of urea during the treatment. The K value is directly related to how effectively waste products, such as urea, are removed from the blood during hemodialysis.

When the blood flow rate is lower, there is less blood being processed through the dialyzer per unit of time. This reduction in flow results in decreased interaction between the blood and the dialyzer's surface, leading to reduced clearance. The dialyzer functions by allowing diffusion of solutes, including urea, from the blood into the dialysate, and an optimal flow rate is essential for achieving effective solute removal.

Maintaining an adequate blood flow rate is crucial for ensuring that the K value remains high, providing effective dialysis treatment and adequate removal of waste products from the patient's bloodstream.