Book excerpt: This is the Pocket Format from the original large size publication. Basic handbook to help nurses and technicians in the dialysis field. It contains functions of the kidney, access for hemodialysis, blood chemistries, signs and symptoms, potential problems in hemodialysis, secondary problems of renal failure, diagnostic studies, dialysates and dialyzers, hemodialysis equipment, water systems, history, dialysis definitions and acronyms, and other useful information. Excellent resource for the new dialysis nurse or technician. Helpful to have for review.Written by Oscar Cairoli with over 37 years of clinical and management experience in this very technical field.