Which treatment option is most appropriate for patients with end-stage renal disease?

The most appropriate treatment option for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is dialysis or kidney transplant. At this stage of kidney dysfunction, the kidneys are no longer able to adequately filter waste from the blood or maintain the body's fluid balance, leading to a buildup of toxins and potentially life-threatening complications.

Dialysis serves as a mechanical means to perform the functions of the failing kidneys. There are two main types of dialysis: hemodialysis, which involves filtering blood through a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, which uses the lining of the abdomen to filter blood internally. These procedures are critical in managing ESRD and can help patients lead a more stable and functional life while awaiting a kidney transplant.

A kidney transplant is another viable option, provided that the patient is a suitable candidate. It provides a more permanent solution to kidney failure, and if successful, it restores the nearly normal function of the kidneys, allowing patients to live without the need for dialysis.

Other treatment options such as medications alone, watchful waiting, or increased fluid intake are not appropriate for managing ESRD. Medications may help manage symptoms or complications but cannot replace the filtering function of the kidneys. Watchful waiting would be insufficient in the context of ESRD as it requires