Kidney Structures and Nephron Function
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Questions and Answers

A patient is experiencing diuresis. An increase in which of the following substances is the MOST likely explanation?

  • Atrial natriuretic peptide (correct)
  • Renin
  • Antidiuretic hormone
  • Aldosterone

A nurse suspects that a patient with female genitalia who suffered a CVA is not able to empty the bladder completely when urinating. Which test does the nurse anticipate will be ordered to assess this?

  • Cystometry
  • Postvoid residual urine (correct)
  • Uroflowmetry
  • Video urodynamics

Which of the following is the MOST significant reason why children have a narrow margin for fluid and electrolyte balance compared to adults?

  • Increased number of nephrons
  • Increased thirst response
  • Higher GFR relative to body size
  • Decreased concentrating ability (correct)

An elderly patient is prescribed a medication primarily cleared by the kidneys. What age-related renal change presents the GREATEST risk for medication toxicity in this patient?

<p>Decreased GFR (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sequence accurately describes the flow of filtrate through the nephron?

<p>Bowman's capsule → Proximal convoluted tubule → Loop of Henle → Distal convoluted tubule → Collecting duct (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the glomerulus?

<p>Filtration of blood to form filtrate. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A physician is evaluating a patient with possible kidney dysfunction. They want a measurement that provides the BEST estimate of the glomerular filtration rate. Which substance would be MOST appropriate to measure for clearance?

<p>Inulin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of the glomerular filtration membrane contains podocytes?

<p>Outer capillary epithelium (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of mesangial cells within the renal corpuscle?

<p>Structural support and regulation of glomerular filtration. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which cells within the juxtaglomerular apparatus are responsible for sensing sodium levels in the distal tubule?

<p>Macula densa (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The efferent arteriole carries blood:

<p>Away from the glomerulus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is not located within the renal cortex?

<p>Loop of Henle (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If the afferent arteriole constricts, what direct effect does this have on glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?

<p>GFR decreases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The peristaltic activity of the ureters, combined with their oblique passage through the bladder wall, primarily serves to:

<p>Prevent backflow of urine into the ureters during bladder contraction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which structure is characterized by intertwining smooth muscle bundles and is responsible for transporting urine from the kidneys to the bladder?

<p>Ureter (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does sympathetic nervous system activity primarily influence renal blood flow?

<p>By regulating the size of afferent and efferent arterioles, thus affecting renal blood flow. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The kidney's ability to maintain a relatively constant glomerular filtration rate (GFR) despite fluctuations in blood pressure is primarily due to:

<p>Autoregulation via tubuloglomerular feedback. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) contributes to overall nephron function?

<p>Active reabsorption of sodium, coupled with water and other solutes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between the length of the loop of Henle and the concentration gradient in the kidney?

<p>Longer loops establish a steeper concentration gradient, enhancing the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does antidiuretic hormone (ADH) contribute to the regulation of fluid balance in the body?

<p>By increasing the permeability of the collecting ducts to water, leading to increased water reabsorption. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following hormones directly stimulates red blood cell production in response to decreased oxygen levels in the kidney?

<p>Erythropoietin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of natriuretic peptides, such as atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), in the kidneys?

<p>To decrease sodium reabsorption, leading to increased sodium and water excretion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient's lab results show a significantly decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Which of the following factors would directly contribute to this finding?

<p>Increased hydrostatic pressure in Bowman's capsule. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a history of heart failure is prescribed a medication that inhibits the action of aldosterone. What direct effect would the nurse anticipate observing, based on an understanding of aldosterone's function in the kidneys?

<p>Decreased sodium reabsorption. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is evaluating the effectiveness of a new drug designed to increase glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Which of the following methods would provide the MOST accurate and direct measure of the drug's impact on GFR?

<p>Measuring inulin clearance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient is admitted with dehydration and a urinary tract infection. Given the understanding of age-related changes in renal function, which intervention is MOST important for the nurse to implement?

<p>Monitoring urine output closely and administering intravenous fluids at a controlled rate. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A child is diagnosed with a condition affecting their ability to concentrate urine effectively. Which physiological consequence is the MOST likely to develop as a result of this condition?

<p>Increased risk of dehydration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with suspected urinary retention following a surgical procedure is ordered to have a postvoid residual (PVR) measurement. Which action by the nurse is MOST appropriate when performing this assessment?

<p>Instructing the patient to void, then catheterizing them within 10-20 minutes to measure the residual volume. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following structures is located between the inner capillary endothelium and the outer capillary epithelium of the glomerular filtration membrane?

<p>Basement membrane (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of blood flow through the following vessels in the kidney?

<p>Interlobar arteries → Arcuate arteries → Afferent arterioles (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a patient has damage to their macula densa cells, what specific function of the nephron would be most directly impaired?

<p>Sodium concentration sensing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering their location and function, damage to the principal cells of the collecting duct would most directly impair:

<p>Reabsorption of sodium and water (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A drug that selectively constricts the efferent arteriole would be expected to directly cause which of the following?

<p>Increased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relative locations of cortical and juxtamedullary nephrons within the kidney?

<p>Cortical nephrons are located closer to the renal capsule, while juxtamedullary nephrons are located closer to the medulla. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the unique arrangement of the vasa recta in the medulla contribute to the kidney's function?

<p>They help maintain the osmotic gradient necessary for urine concentration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A researcher is studying the composition of filtrate as it moves through the nephron. Where would they expect to find filtrate with the highest concentration of glucose under normal physiological conditions?

<p>Bowman's capsule (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the functional significance of the ureters passing obliquely through the posterior aspect of the bladder?

<p>Preventing urine reflux back into the ureters during bladder contraction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the sympathetic nervous system primarily influence renal blood flow?

<p>By regulating the size of afferent and efferent arterioles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the INITIAL effect of afferent arteriole constriction on glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?

<p>A decrease in GFR due to reduced blood flow to the glomerulus. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the role of the countercurrent exchange system in the nephron?

<p>Creating a concentration gradient within the medulla of the kidney to concentrate urine. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which the proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) contributes to nephron function?

<p>Active reabsorption of sodium, glucose, and amino acids. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient's kidneys are releasing erythropoietin. What is the MOST probable cause?

<p>Hypoxia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary effect of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) on kidney function?

<p>Increased sodium excretion and decreased blood volume. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the glomerular filtration membrane's permeability characteristics?

<p>Permeable to water; impermeable to large molecules (proteins). (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does antidiuretic hormone (ADH) influence urine production?

<p>Decreases urine production by increasing water reabsorption in the collecting ducts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A drug that inhibits aldosterone MOST likely has which of the following effects on kidney function?

<p>Increased potassium secretion and decreased sodium reabsorption. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Renal Cortex

Outer layer of the kidney.

Renal Medulla

Inner portion of the kidney, containing renal pyramids.

Renal Pelvis

Collects urine from the nephrons.

Nephron

Functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and forming urine

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Glomerulus

A network of capillaries within the Bowman's capsule that filters blood.

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Bowman Capsule

Surrounds the glomerulus and collects the filtrate.

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Macula Densa

Senses sodium levels and helps regulate blood pressure.

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Juxtaglomerular Cells

Releases renin to regulate blood pressure.

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Ureters

Tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

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Detrusor Muscle

The smooth muscle layer of the bladder wall responsible for contraction during urination.

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Trigone

A triangular area at the base of the bladder where the ureters enter and the urethra exits.

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Internal and External Sphincters

Controls the flow of urine in and out.

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Renal Blood Flow

The volume of blood flowing through the kidneys per minute.

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Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The rate at which fluid is filtered from the blood into the kidney's tubules.

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Autoregulation (kidneys)

The kidney's ability to maintain a constant blood flow despite changes in blood pressure.

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Tubular transport

Reabsorption and secretion of substances along the nephron.

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Countercurrent Exchange System

System in the loop of Henle that creates concentration gradients for urine production.

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Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

Hormone that increases water reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to more concentrated urine.

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Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP)

Hormone that inhibits sodium and water absorption, leading to increased urine production.

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Renal Clearance

Measurement of the rate at which substances are cleared from the plasma by the kidneys.

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Postvoid Residual (PVR)

Urine volume remaining in the bladder after voiding.

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Pediatric Renal Function

Due to immature kidney function, infants and young children process water and electrolytes less efficiently than adults.

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Retroperitoneal Kidneys

Located behind the peritoneum.

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Renal Capsule

Fibrous outer layer of the kidney.

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Renal Fascia

Connective tissue that anchors the kidney.

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Kidney Hilum

Indentation where vessels and nerves enter/exit.

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Sympathetic Fibers (Kidney)

Regulate renal blood flow by controlling the size of afferent and efferent arterioles.

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Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)

System that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance via hormones.

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Natriuretic Peptides

Hormones that promote sodium and water excretion by the kidneys.

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Nephron Function

Filters plasma, reabsorbs, secretes, and maintains fluid/electrolyte balance.

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Net Filtration Pressure

The pressure driving fluid and solutes across the glomerular capillaries.

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Glomerulotubular Balance

Adjustment of sodium and water reabsorption in the proximal tubule to maintain a constant fraction of GFR

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Countercurrent Exchange

System where fluid flows in opposite directions to maximize concentration gradients in the kidney.

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Uroflowmetry

A test measuring the rate of urine flow.

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Aging & Renal Function

Reduced renal blood flow and GFR can alter sodium and water balance.

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Study Notes

Structures of the Kidney

  • The kidneys are retroperitoneal in location.
  • The kidney consists of a renal capsule, renal fascia, and hilum.
  • The cortex is the outer kidney region.
  • The medulla is the inner kidney region.
  • Pyramids are located in the medulla.
  • Minor and major calyces collect urine.
  • The renal pelvis directs urine toward the ureter.
  • A lobe is the functional kidney unit with a pyramid and cortex.

Nephron

  • Each kidney contains 1.2 million nephrons.
  • Nephron types include cortical, midcortical, and juxtamedullary.
  • The nephron is the kidney's functional unit.
  • The renal corpuscle consists of the glomerulus, Bowman capsule, and mesangial cells.
  • Bowman's space (capsule) surrounds the glomerulus.
  • The glomerular filtration membrane consists of inner capillary endothelium, a middle basement membrane, and outer capillary epithelium with podocytes and filtration slits.
  • Filtrate forms primary urine as it passes through glomerular filtration membrane layers.
  • The juxtaglomerular apparatus contains juxtaglomerular cells that release renin.
  • The macula densa senses sodium levels.
  • Renal tubules are the proximal convoluted tubule, the Loop of Henle, the distal convoluted tubule, and collecting duct.
  • Principal and intercalated cells are also part of the renal tubules.

Blood Vessels

  • Renal arteries supply the kidneys with blood.
  • Interlobar arteries branch into afferent arteries.
  • Arcuate arteries branch from interlobar arteries.
  • Glomerular capillaries include afferent and efferent arterioles.
  • Peritubular and vasa recta capillaries surround the tubules.
  • Renal Veins drain the blood flow

Urinary Structures

  • Ureters are 30 cm long and contain intertwining smooth muscle.
  • Ureters pass obliquely through the posterior bladder aspect.
  • Peristaltic activity moves urine.
  • Bladder contraction during micturition prevents urine reflux via ureter compression.
  • The bladder contains the detrusor muscle and the trigone.
  • The urethra features internal and external sphincters.
  • Female urethras are 3 to 4 cm long.
  • Male urethras are 18 to 20 cm long.

Renal Blood Flow

  • The kidneys receive 1000-1200 mL of blood per minute.
  • Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is the plasma filtration rate per time unit.
  • Autoregulation involves tubuloglomerular feedback.
  • Sympathetic fibers regulate afferent and efferent arteriole size, thus affecting renal blood flow.
  • There is no significant parasympathetic regulation of renal blood flow.
  • Renalase regulates blood flow.
  • Hormonal regulation involves the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and natriuretic peptides like urodilantin.

Nephron Function

  • Nephrons filter plasma, reabsorb, and secrete.
  • Tubular reabsorption and secretion are processes that form protein-free fluid filtrate.
  • Fluid volume, electrolytes, and pH are maintained by filtrate regulation.
  • Glomerular filtration is permeable to water but not to large molecules.
  • Net filtration pressure depends on glomerular capillary oncotic and hydrostatic pressure.
  • The filtration rate is 180 L per day.
  • Tubular transport:
    • Active sodium reabsorption occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule.
    • Glomerulotubular balance adjusts sodium and water reabsorption.
    • Concentration and dilution of urine by the countercurrent exchange system.
    • Uromodulin is produced in the Loop of Henle and distal tubule

Concentration and Dilution of Urine

  • Concentrated urine is produced through the countercurrent exchange system.
  • Fluid flows in opposite directions through parallel tubes.
  • Fluid moves up and down the parallel limbs of the loop of Henle.
  • A longer loop yields a greater concentration gradient.

Hormones and Renal Function

  • Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) regulates water balance.
  • Aldosterone regulates sodium and potassium balance.
  • Natriuretic peptides include atrial natriuretic peptide, B-type natriuretic peptide, C-type natriuretic peptide, and urodilantin.
  • Diuretics increase urine output
  • Vitamin D promotes calcium and phosphate absorption.
  • Erythropoietin stimulates RBC production in response to decreased oxygen.

Tests of Renal Function

  • Clearance and renal blood flow can be measured.
  • Glomerular filtration rate can be tested via inulin, cystatin C, and creatinine.
  • Blood tests analyze plasma creatinine concentration and blood urea nitrogen (BUN).
  • Urinalysis is used.
  • Urodynamic tests include cystometry, uroflowmetry, postvoid residual volume measurement, electromyography, and video urodynamics.
  • Direct visualization tests include cystoscopy and ureteroscopy.

Pediatric Renal Function

  • Infants have a decreased ability to remove excess water and solutes and concentrate urine.
  • Infants have a narrow margin for fluid and electrolyte balance.
  • Infants have an increased risk of medication toxicity.

Aging and Renal Function

  • There is a decrease in renal blood flow and GFR in older adults.
  • Sodium and water balance is altered with age.
  • The number of nephrons decreases due to renal vascular and perfusion changes.
  • The response to acid-base changes is delayed in older adults.
  • They have an increased risk of medication toxicity
  • Alterations to thirst and water intake occur in older adults.

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Description

Explore the kidney's anatomy, including the cortex, medulla, and renal pyramids. Understand the nephron's role as the functional unit, its types, and the glomerular filtration membrane. Learn about urine collection and the path it takes through the kidney.

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