What is a distinguishing feature of hemodialysis compared to peritoneal dialysis?

In hemodialysis, a distinguishing feature is the use of artificial access for the treatment process. This typically involves the creation of a vascular access point, such as a fistula or graft, that allows blood to be drawn from the body, filtered through a dialyzer (the artificial kidney), and then returned to the body. This type of access is necessary due to the need for high blood flow rates during treatment, which is essential for effective dialysis.

This is in contrast to peritoneal dialysis, which utilizes the peritoneal membrane as a natural filter and involves the infusion of a dialysis solution into the abdominal cavity through a catheter. Because of this design, peritoneal dialysis does not rely on artificial vascular access like hemodialysis does.

The other choices do not accurately capture the primary characteristic that distinguishes these two dialysis methods. For example, while hemodialysis does often take place in medical facilities, peritoneal dialysis can be performed at home, making choice related to treatment settings less valid. Therefore, the use of artificial access as a requirement for hemodialysis clearly delineates it from peritoneal dialysis.