Functions of the Kidneys

Flashcards summarizing the key functions and conditions related to kidney health.

What are the main functions of the kidneys?

Filter waste, urine production, fluid electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, red blood cell production, and blood pressure regulation.

What is ultrafiltration in the context of kidneys?

The process where water and solutes are filtered out of the capillaries through the glomerular capsule.

What does GFR stand for and why is it important?

GFR stands for Glomerular Filtration Rate; it measures kidney function and indicates potential kidney disease if abnormal.

What is tubular reabsorption?

The process where sodium chloride and water balance takes place within the kidneys.

What characterizes acute kidney injury (AKI)?

A rapid decline in the kidney's ability to filter metabolic waste products from the blood.

What are the three types of AKI causes?

Pre-renal, intra-renal, and post-renal.

What is the normal creatinine range in the body?

Typically 0.5 to 1.2 mg/dL.

What are common symptoms associated with fluid retention in AKI?

Swelling, hypertension, and signs of potential heart failure.

What phase do patients enter after the oliguric phase during AKI recovery?

The diuretic phase.

What is the primary treatment for severe hyperkalemia in AKI patients?

Sodium bicarbonate is often administered to help lower potassium levels.

Which condition is often the number one cause of death in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI)?

Infection.

What happens during the recovery phase of AKI?

Improvement in urine output and normalization of kidney function indicators can occur.

What is the term for the accumulation of waste products due to kidney dysfunction?

Azotemia.

What are some clinical manifestations of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

Fatigue, hyperkalemia, anemia, hypertension, and possible itchiness due to metabolic waste accumulation.

What is the significance of blood pressure regulation by kidneys?

It helps maintain overall fluid balance in the body and prevent complications from hypertension.

What dietary changes might be needed for a patient with chronic kidney disease?

Dietary restrictions on potassium, phosphorous, and sodium may be required.

What is peritoneal dialysis primarily used for?

To replace the waste filtering functions of the kidneys when they are not functioning properly.

What are some common causes of pre-renal AKI?

Heart failure, shock, and dehydration, all of which reduce blood flow to the kidneys.

How can nephrotoxic agents impact kidney function?

They can cause damage to kidney tissues, leading to impaired filtration and functionality.