The Concept of Elimination Practice Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the physiology, alterations, and management of renal and gastrointestinal elimination systems based on lecture notes.

Elimination

The secretion and excretion of physiological waste products by the kidneys and intestines.

Urinary Elimination

A process that controls the volume and composition of blood and rids the body of excess fluid and electrolytes.

Normal urinary process functions

Maintains the concentration of ions needed for neuronal and muscle function, bone strength, and cellular regeneration.

Nocturia

An alteration in urinary elimination characterized by voiding during the night.

Dysuria

Painful or difficult urination.

Hemodialysis

A procedure where blood flows through an external machine and is then returned to the client's body.

Peritoneal dialysis

A procedure where dialysis solution is instilled into the abdominal cavity at frequent intervals.

Defecation

The expulsion of feces from the anus and rectum; also referred to as a bowel movement.

Peristalsis

The physiological process that involves wave-like muscle contractions to move content through the digestive tract.

Normal Feces Composition

Typically consists of $75\%$ water and $25\%$ solid material.

Meconium

The initial stool passed by newborns and infants.

Diarrhea

The passage of liquid feces with increased frequency resulting from rapid movement of fecal content through the large intestine.

Flatulence

Excessive gases in the intestines or colon caused by bacterial action on chyme, swallowed air, or gas diffusing from the bloodstream.

Constipation

The passage of fewer than $3$ bowel movements per week or general difficulty in passing stools.

Bowel incontinence

The inability to voluntarily control the passage of feces and intestinal gas through the anal sphincter.

Impaction

Hardened feces that cause constipation, incontinence, cramping, and straining in defecation.

Obstruction

A blockage in the bowel characterized by symptoms such as distention, cramping, constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Diuretics

Pharmacologic therapy used to rid the body of excess fluid, including loop, thiazide, and potassium-sparing categories.

Anticholinergic medications

Drugs used to reduce urinary frequency and treat incontinence.

Cholinergic medications

Drugs used to promote urination.

Anorectal manometry

A diagnostic test used to evaluate bowel elimination function.