Which statement indicates understanding about CKD progression?

• A. CKD can be cured with proper diet.
• B. Medications can fully restore kidney function.
• C. Dialysis can be avoided with aggressive diuretics.
• D. Renal replacement therapy will need to be initiated immediately to rid the body of waste and maintain fluid balance.

Answer: (D)

As kidney function declines, the body loses its ability to remove waste and regulate fluids and electrolytes. When CKD progresses to the point where filtration is severely limited, renal replacement therapy becomes necessary to keep waste products from building up and to maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance. This therapy—dialysis or a kidney transplant—acts as a substitute for the failing kidneys, helping to sustain life but not curing the underlying disease.

That’s why this statement is the best answer: it reflects the reality that, in advanced CKD, the body will need ongoing renal replacement to manage waste removal and fluid balance. Medications or dietary changes can slow progression and help manage symptoms, but they cannot restore lost kidney function. Diuretics may help with fluid overload in some remaining kidney function, but they cannot prevent the need for dialysis in end-stage disease.