Urologic Emergencies Vocabulary

A complete set of vocabulary flashcards covering basic urinary system anatomy, pathophysiology of urologic emergencies, and key terms related to kidney failure and dialysis.

Urinary System

The organ system that removes waste from the blood and helps control fluid, electrolytes, and acid-base balance.

Kidneys

Organs that filter the blood, remove waste, produce urine, help regulate fluid and electrolytes, and help regulate blood pressure.

Ureters

Two tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Bladder

Organ that stores urine.

Urethra

Structure that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

Prostate

Gland that can enlarge and obstruct urine flow.

Urinary Pathway

The sequential pathway of urine flow through the body: Kidney -> Ureter -> Bladder -> Urethra.

Kidney Stone

A hard mass formed from substances in the urine that can move from the kidney into the ureter.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

An infection somewhere in the urinary tract, causing burning/pain with urination, frequency, urgency, lower abdominal discomfort, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.

Kidney Infection

An infection of the kidneys presenting with fever, chills, flank/back pain, N/V, and feeling very ill, which can progress to sepsis.

Urinary Retention

The inability to empty the bladder normally.

Kidney Failure

A condition occurring when the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their functions, causing waste products and excess fluid to build up in the body.

Dialysis

A medical treatment for kidney failure patients that helps remove waste and excess fluid from the blood.

AV Fistula

A surgically created connection between an artery and vein used for hemodialysis.

Thrill

A vibration felt over an AV fistula.

Bruit

A whooshing sound heard over an AV fistula using a stethoscope.

Dialysis Disequilibrium

A complication of dialysis that can cause headache, nausea, confusion, and seizures.

Hematuria

Presence of blood in the urine, which can appear pink, red, or brown.

Urinary Incontinence

The loss of bladder control resulting in unintentional urination.