What does the process of dialysis predominantly target?

Dialysis is a medical treatment that serves multiple critical functions in patients with kidney failure. It is predominantly aimed at addressing fluid retention, restoring normal kidney function, and correcting electrolyte imbalances.

Fluid retention occurs when the kidneys are unable to excrete excess water, leading to swelling and complications such as high blood pressure or heart failure. Dialysis removes excess fluid from the body, helping to alleviate these issues.

In terms of kidney function, dialysis substitutes for the filtering action of the kidneys, which is necessary in cases where the kidneys can no longer effectively remove waste products or excess substances from the blood. This process is vital for maintaining overall health in patients with severely impaired renal function.

Lastly, dialysis plays a crucial role in correcting electrolyte imbalances. The kidneys are responsible for balancing electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and bicarbonate. When the kidneys fail, these electrolytes can become dangerously elevated or depleted, leading to serious health complications. Dialysis helps to restore these levels to a safe range.

Thus, dialysis effectively targets fluid retention, improves kidney function by performing the filtering role of healthy kidneys, and corrects electrolyte imbalances, making "all of the above" the comprehensive answer to the question.