A patient on dialysis (Monday and Thursday). When is the BEST day to schedule dental treatment?

Correct answer: C. Friday (day after Thursday dialysis — heparin effect resolved, patient feels best post-dialysis)

• A. Wednesday is between sessions — uremic toxin buildup is increasing and heparin effects are from earlier dialysis.
• B. Tuesday (day after Monday) is acceptable but Friday is classically the preferred answer for this schedule.
• C. Correct. Dialysis patients should be treated on a DAY AFTER dialysis, but NOT on dialysis day itself. Friday (day after Thursday's session) is ideal because: (1) heparin used during dialysis has cleared (t½ ~4 hours), (2) uremic toxins are at lowest level, (3) patient feels best. Tuesday (day after Monday) is also acceptable.
• D. Monday is a dialysis day — heparin is active during dialysis and patients feel poorly immediately after.