Exam III Urinary System and Acid-Base Balance Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomy and physiology of the urinary system, normal urine parameters, and common acid-base and electrolyte imbalances.

Movement of Urine Path

Renal papilla → Minor calyx → Major calyx → Renal pelvis → Ureter → Urinary bladder → Urethra → Urinary meatus.

Cortex

The outer layer of the kidney containing nephrons.

Medulla

The inner layer of the kidney containing renal pyramids.

Hematuria

Blood in the urine.

ADH

Hormone responsible for water reabsorption; controlled by the Hypothalamus.

Aldosterone

Hormone responsible for sodium and water retention.

Renin

Hormone that activates the RAAS.

Nephron Flow

Afferent arteriole → Glomerulus → Bowman's capsule → PCT → Loop of Henle → DCT → Collecting tubule.

Incontinence

Involuntary urination.

Urinary Bladder

Located in the pelvic cavity, it stores urine with a capacity of approximately $500\,mL$.

Urine Formation

A three-step process consisting of Filtration, Reabsorption, and Secretion.

Urinary System Functions

Excretion, fluid balance, electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, erythropoietin, and renin production.

Renal Corpuscle

A component of the nephron consisting of the Glomerulus and Bowman's capsule.

Normal Urine Output

Defined as $1000$ to $2000\,mL/day$ with an average of $1500\,mL/day$.

Respiratory Alkalosis

An acid-base imbalance where $pH\uparrow$ and $CO_2\downarrow$. Causes include anxiety and hyperventilation; nursing interventions focus on slow breathing and reducing anxiety.

Metabolic Acidosis

An acid-base imbalance where $pH\downarrow$ and $HCO_3\downarrow$. Causes include DKA, renal failure, diarrhea, and aspirin overdose; often presents with Kussmaul respirations.

Respiratory Acidosis

An acid-base imbalance where $pH\downarrow$ and $CO_2\uparrow$. Causes include COPD, opioids, and airway obstruction, leading to excess $CO_2$ retention.

Metabolic Alkalosis

An acid-base imbalance where $pH\uparrow$ and $HCO_3\uparrow$. Causes include vomiting, NG suction, and antacid abuse.

Hypokalemia

A condition where $K^+ < 3.5$; caused by diuretics, vomiting, diarrhea, or NG suction. ECG shows U waves.

Hyperkalemia

A condition where $K^+ > 5.0$; caused by renal failure, ACE inhibitors, spironolactone, or Addison disease. ECG shows Tall peaked T waves.