Dialysis refers to the diffusion of molecules through a semipermeable membrane from an area of higher concentration to lower concentration. It serves to maintain fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance and remove toxins as a substitute for some kidney functions. The two main types are hemodialysis, which cleans the blood using an external dialysis machine, and peritoneal dialysis, which uses the peritoneal membrane. Hemodialysis requires vascular access via an arteriovenous fistula, graft, or catheter and involves passing blood through a dialyzer to remove waste using countercurrent dialysate flow. Nursing care focuses on monitoring patients during and after treatment and educating on access care.