Functions of the Kidneys and Diuretic Therapy

What is the primary function of the kidneys in relation to blood cells?

Which of the following is a primary function of the kidneys?

What is the active form of vitamin D produced by the kidneys?

Which laboratory test is most reflective of the progression of kidney disease?

What is the primary function of the kidneys in relation to body fluids?

What is the role of the enzyme renin in the kidneys?

What is the primary function of the kidneys in relation to vitamin D?

Which of the following is a consequence of chronic kidney disease?

What is the role of the kidneys in the nursing process?

Which of the following is a QSEN competency related to the kidneys?

Functions of the Kidneys

Kidneys help regulate potassium balance
Kidneys balance fluid and electrolytes in the body
Kidneys secrete renin, which helps regulate blood pressure
Kidneys do not affect serum oxygen levels
Kidneys do not have an impact on bacterial infections

Kidney Damage and Proteinuria

Presence of protein in urine (proteinuria) indicates kidney pathology
Proteinuria is a primary measurement for structural kidney damage

Diuretic Therapy

Diuretics are used to treat conditions with abnormal fluid retention, such as:
- Heart failure
- Hypertension
- Acute kidney injury
Diuretics increase urine flow to reverse fluid retention
Diuretics are not used to treat ketoacidosis; instead, fluid replacement is required

Side Effects of Diuretics

Chlorothiazide (Diuril) can cause:
- Low serum potassium levels (hypokalemia)
- Low blood pressure

Acute Renal Failure

Clients with acute renal failure cannot effectively regulate:
- Fluid balance
- Electrolyte balance
- pH of body fluids
- Blood pressure

Kidney Physiology

Kidneys regulate blood pressure through the secretion of renin
Kidneys regulate the acid-base balance of body fluids
Kidneys produce calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D
Kidneys do not stimulate white blood cell production, but stimulate red blood cell production through erythropoietin secretion

This quiz covers the functions of the kidneys, including regulating potassium balance and blood pressure, and signs of kidney damage such as proteinuria. It also touches on diuretic therapy and its effects.