Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is a crucial focus of nursing care for a patient in the acute stages of kidney issues?
What is a crucial focus of nursing care for a patient in the acute stages of kidney issues?
The immune system is often functioning adequately in patients with acute kidney issues.
The immune system is often functioning adequately in patients with acute kidney issues.
False
What is one of the most important roles of the nurse when caring for a patient with impaired renal function?
What is one of the most important roles of the nurse when caring for a patient with impaired renal function?
Prevent infections
The patient must be educated about good _____ hygiene to prevent infections.
The patient must be educated about good _____ hygiene to prevent infections.
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Which action should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection in a patient with renal issues?
Which action should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection in a patient with renal issues?
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Match the following nursing care activities with their purposes:
Match the following nursing care activities with their purposes:
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Elevated white blood cell (WBC) counts are common indicators of infection in patients with renal problems.
Elevated white blood cell (WBC) counts are common indicators of infection in patients with renal problems.
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What should be monitored every four hours in a patient with potential infection?
What should be monitored every four hours in a patient with potential infection?
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What is a recommended strategy for making mealtimes easier for a patient with anorexia during acute nephritis?
What is a recommended strategy for making mealtimes easier for a patient with anorexia during acute nephritis?
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Fluid balance is not a significant concern for patients with nephritis.
Fluid balance is not a significant concern for patients with nephritis.
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List one common manifestation of nephritis that can contribute to fatigue.
List one common manifestation of nephritis that can contribute to fatigue.
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Patients with nephritis should be educated about the importance of _____ restrictions.
Patients with nephritis should be educated about the importance of _____ restrictions.
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Which approach can help reduce fatigue in nephritis patients?
Which approach can help reduce fatigue in nephritis patients?
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Match the symptoms of nephritis with their impact on the patient:
Match the symptoms of nephritis with their impact on the patient:
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Offering mouth care can help keep the mucous membranes moist for patients with nephritis.
Offering mouth care can help keep the mucous membranes moist for patients with nephritis.
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Name one method to assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) in a way that conserves their energy.
Name one method to assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs) in a way that conserves their energy.
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Study Notes
Nursing Care for Nephritis
- Monitoring intake and output is essential to manage fluid status, especially due to potential fluid shifts and IV lines.
- Preventing infection is critical due to a compromised immune system and immunosuppressant medications.
- Monitor for subtle signs of infection, such as fever, malaise, and changes in WBC count.
- Minimize invasive procedures and use sterile techniques for catheterization.
- Maintain a patent gravity flow system to prevent urine reflux.
- Ensure good hand hygiene for both patients and visitors.
- Screen close contacts for streptococcal infection if applicable.
- Frequent vital sign monitoring, including temperature and mental status, is crucial to detect early infection signs.
- Be aware that anti-inflammatory medications can mask typical infection symptoms, potentially leading to tachycardia, lethargy, or confusion.
- Protect skin integrity by frequent turning, positioning, and wrinkle-free bed sheets.
- Consult a skin specialist for individualized skin breakdown prevention plans.
Nutritional Balance
- Anorexia can be a major challenge in the acute phase of nephritis.
- Ensure the patient is provided with an appropriate diet.
- Create a relaxed mealtime environment by removing aversive odors and distracting objects.
- Provide patient and family education on dietary restrictions.
Monitoring Fluid Volume
- Monitor fluid intake and output to identify potential fluid volume imbalances, such as hypovolemia.
- Hypovolemia can be caused by fluid shifts due to decreased protein levels in the bloodstream.
- Measure abdominal girth if ascites is present.
- Educate both the family and patient about fluid restrictions.
- Offer frequent mouth care to maintain moist mucous membranes and prevent chapped lips.
Fatigue Management
- Fatigue is common in nephritis due to factors such as anemia, headache, reduced plasma proteins, anorexia, and nausea.
- Schedule activities and procedures to allow for adequate rest and energy conservation.
- Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) as needed.
- Limit the number of visitors and visits to help with fatigue.
- Explain the relationship between fatigue and the disease process to the patient and family.
Promoting Self-Esteem
- Nephritis can impact a patient's ability to maintain usual roles and activities.
- Fatigue and muscle weakness may limit physical and social activities.
- Bed rest or activity limitations may be prescribed to minimize proteinuria.
- Azotemia can contribute to malaise, nausea, and cognitive changes, further affecting role function.
- Facial and periorbital edema can negatively impact self-esteem and lead to social isolation.
- Encourage patient self-care and participation in decision-making.
- Support coping mechanisms and identify personal strengths.
- Discuss the impact of the disease and treatments on roles and relationships, helping the patient anticipate potential changes.
- Develop a plan for alternative behaviors and relationships, encouraging the patient to maintain usual roles as much as possible.
- Provide accurate and realistic information about the disorder and its short- and long-term effects.
- Evaluate the need for additional support and social services for the patient and family.
- Provide referrals as indicated.
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Description
This quiz covers essential nursing care practices for patients with nephritis, emphasizing fluid management, infection prevention, and patient monitoring. Test your knowledge on the critical interventions required to support these patients effectively. Learn about key signs to monitor and strategies to maintain skin integrity and prevent complications.
