American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is included in the education for patients with an eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2?

1. Only non-dialytic management

2. Only peritoneal dialysis

3. Peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, transplantation, and non-dialytic management

4. Only hemodialysis

The correct answer is: Peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, transplantation, and non-dialytic management

When a patient has an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 30 mL/min/1.73 m², it indicates that the patient has significantly reduced kidney function and is approaching the need for renal replacement therapy. In such cases, it is crucial to provide comprehensive education that encompasses all treatment options available for managing chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. This includes peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, which are both forms of renal replacement therapy that patients may require depending on their clinical condition and personal preferences. In addition, transplantation is a potential option for eligible patients, representing a more definitive treatment for end-stage renal disease. Non-dialytic management also plays a role, particularly in discussions about symptom control and the management of complications arising from kidney failure. Providing a broad range of options empowers patients and allows them to make informed decisions about their treatment pathways. It’s important to cover all these strategies in patient education to ensure they understand their choices and how each might align with their health goals and lifestyle preferences.