Chapter 68 - Care of Patients with Acute Kidney Injury and Chronic Kidney Disease

18. A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is experiencing nausea, vomiting, visual changes, and anorexia. Which action by the nurse is best? a. Check the clients digoxin (Lanoxin) level. b. Administer an anti-nausea medication. c. Ask if the client is able to eat crackers. d. Get a referral to a gastrointestinal provider.

A These signs and symptoms are indications of digoxin (Lanoxin) toxicity. The nurse should check the level of this medication. Administering antiemetics, asking if the client can eat, and obtaining a referral to a specialist all address the clients symptoms but do not lead to the cause of the symptoms.

Which clinical manifestation indicates the need for increased fluids in a client with kidney failure? Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) Correct Increased creatinine level Pale-colored urine Decreased sodium level

An increase in BUN can be an indication of dehydration, and an increase in fluids is needed. Increased creatinine indicates kidney impairment. Urine that is pale in color is diluted; an increase in fluids is not necessary. Sodium is increased, not decreased, with dehydration.

A client is scheduled to undergo kidney transplant surgery. Which teaching point does the nurse include in the preoperative teaching session? "Your diseased kidneys will be removed at the same time the transplant is performed." "The new kidney will be placed directly below one of your old kidneys." "It is essential for you to wash your hands and avoid people who are ill." Correct "You will receive dialysis the day before surgery and for about a week after."

Anti-rejection medications increase the risks for infection, sepsis, and death. Strict aseptic technique and handwashing are essential. Unless severely infected, the client's kidneys are left in place and the graft is placed in the iliac fossa. Dialysis is performed the day before surgery; after the surgery, the new kidney should begin to make urine.

A client is being treated for kidney failure. Which statement by the nurse encourages the client to express his or her feelings and concerns about the risk for death and the disruption of lifestyle? "All of this is new. What can't you do?" "Are you afraid of dying?" "How are you doing this morning?" "What concerns do you have about your kidney disease?" Correct

Asking the client about any concerns is open-ended and specific to the client's concerns. Asking the client to explain what he or she can't do implies inadequacy on the client's part. Asking the client if he or she is afraid of dying is too direct and would likely cause the client to be anxious. Asking the client how he or she is doing is too general and does not encourage the client to share thoughts on a specific topic.

A client who performs home continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis reports that the drainage (effluent) has become cloudy in the past 24 hours. What is the nurse's best first action? A. Remove the peritoneal catheter. B. Notify the nephrology health care provider immediately. C. Obtain a sample of effluent for culture and sensitivity. D. Explain to the client the need to keep the dialysate in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial overgrowth. (Page 2787).

C

19. The nurse is taking the vital signs of a client after hemodialysis. Blood pressure is 110/58 mm Hg, pulse 66 beats/min, and temperature is 99.8 F (37.6 C). What is the most appropriate action by the nurse? a. Administer fluid to increase blood pressure. b. Check the white blood cell count. c. Monitor the clients temperature. d. Connect the client to an electrocardiographic (ECG) monitor.

C During hemodialysis, the dialysate is warmed to increase diffusion and prevent hypothermia. The clients temperature could reflect the temperature of the dialysate. There is no indication to check the white blood cell count or connect the client to an ECG monitor. The other vital signs are within normal limits.

25. The nurse is teaching a client how to increase the flow of dialysate into the peritoneal cavity during dialysis. Which statement by the client demonstrates a correct understanding of the teaching? a. I should leave the drainage bag above the level of my abdomen. b. I could flush the tubing with normal saline if the flow stops. c. I should take a stool softener every morning to avoid constipation. d. My diet should have low fiber in it to prevent any irritation.

C Inflow and outflow problems of the dialysate are best controlled by preventing constipation. A daily stool softener is the best option for the client. The drainage bag should be below the level of the abdomen. Flushing the tubing will not help with the flow. A diet high in fiber will also help with a constipation problem.

21. The charge nurse is orienting a float nurse to an assigned client with an arteriovenous (AV) fistula for hemodialysis in her left arm. Which action by the float nurse would be considered unsafe? a. Palpating the access site for a bruit or thrill b. Using the right arm for a blood pressure reading c. Administering intravenous fluids through the AV fistula d. Checking distal pulses in the left arm

C The nurse should not use the arm with the AV fistula for intravenous infusion, blood pressure readings, or venipuncture. Compression and infection can result in the loss of the AV fistula. The AV fistula should be monitored by auscultating or palpating the access site. Checking the distal pulse would be an appropriate assessment.

A client with a recently created vascular access for hemodialysis is being discharged. In planning discharge instructions, which information does the nurse include? Avoiding venipuncture and blood pressure measurements in the affected arm Correct Modifications to allow for complete rest of the affected arm How to assess for a bruit in the affected arm How to practice proper nutrition

Compression of vascular access causes decreased blood flow and may cause occlusion; if this occurs, dialysis will not be possible. The arm should be exercised to encourage venous dilation, not rested. The client can palpate for a thrill; a stethoscope is not needed to auscultate the bruit at home. The nurse should take every opportunity to discuss nutrition, even as it relates to wound healing, but loss of the graft or fistula by compression or occlusion must take priority because lifesaving dialysis cannot be performed.

A client with end-stage kidney disease has been put on fluid restrictions. Which assessment finding indicates that the client has not adhered to this restriction? Blood pressure of 118/78 mm Hg Weight loss of 3 pounds during hospitalization Dyspnea and anxiety at rest Correct Central venous pressure (CVP) of 6 mm Hg

Dyspnea is a sign of fluid overload and possible pulmonary edema; the nurse should assist the client in correlating symptoms of fluid overload with nonadherence to fluid restriction. Nonadherence to fluid restriction results in fluid volume excess and higher blood pressures; 118/78 mm Hg is a normal blood pressure. Excess fluid intake and fluid retention are manifested by an elevated CVP (>8 mm Hg) and weight gain, not weight loss.

Which instruction by the nurse will help a client with chronic kidney disease prevent renal osteodystrophy? Consuming a low-calcium diet Avoiding peas, nuts, and legumes Correct Drinking cola beverages only once daily Increasing dairy products enriched with vitamin D

Kidney failure causes hyperphosphatemia; this client must restrict phosphorus-containing foods such as beans, peas, nuts (peanut butter), and legumes. Calcium should not be restricted; hyperphosphatemia results in a decrease in serum calcium and demineralization of the bone. Cola beverages and dairy products are high in phosphorus, contributing to hypocalcemia and bone breakdown.

To prevent pre-renal acute kidney injury, which person is encouraged to increase fluid consumption? Construction worker Correct Office secretary Schoolteacher Taxicab driver

Physical labor and working outdoors, especially in warm weather, cause diaphoresis and place the construction worker at risk for dehydration and pre-renal azotemia. The office secretary and schoolteacher work indoors and, even without air conditioning, will not lose as much fluid to diaphoresis as someone performing physical labor. The taxicab driver, even without air conditioning, will not experience diaphoresis and fluid loss like the construction worker.

A client with chronic kidney disease reports chest pain. The nurse notes tachycardia and low-grade fever. Which additional assessment is warranted? Auscultate for pericardial friction rub. Correct Assess for crackles. Monitor for decreased peripheral pulses. Determine if the client is able to ambulate.

The client with uremia is prone to pericarditis; symptoms include inspiratory chest pain, low-grade fever, and ST-segment elevation. Crackles and tachycardia are symptomatic of fluid overload; fever is not present. Although the nurse will monitor pulses, and ambulation is important to prevent weakness and deep vein thrombosis, these are not pertinent to the constellation of symptoms of pericarditis that the client presents with.

A client is receiving immune-suppressive therapy after kidney transplantation. Which measure for infection control is most important for the nurse to implement? Adherence to therapy Handwashing Correct Monitoring for low-grade fever Strict clean technique

The most important infection control measure for the client receiving immune-suppressive therapy is handwashing. Adherence to therapy and monitoring for low-grade fever are important, but are not infection control measures. The nurse should practice aseptic technique for this client, not simply clean technique.

Which assessment finding represents a positive response to erythropoietin (Epogen, Procrit) therapy? Hematocrit of 26.7% Potassium within normal range Absence of spontaneous fractures Less fatigue Correct

Treatment of anemia with erythropoietin will result in increased hemoglobin and hematocrit (H&H) and decreased shortness of breath and fatigue. A hematocrit value of 26.7% is low; erythropoietin should restore the hematocrit to at least 36% to be effective. Erythropoietin causes more red blood cells to be produced, increasing H&H, not potassium. Calcium supplements and phosphate binders prevent renal osteodystrophy; erythropoietin treats anemia.

1. The nurse is caring for five clients on the medical-surgical unit. Which clients would the nurse consider to be at risk for post-renal acute kidney injury (AKI)? (Select all that apply.) a. Man with prostate cancer b. Woman with blood clots in the urinary tract c. Client with ureterolithiasis d. Firefighter with severe burns e. Young woman with lupus

A, B, C Urine flow obstruction, such as prostate cancer, blood clots in the urinary tract, and kidney stones (ureterolithiasis), causes post-renal AKI. Severe burns would be a pre-renal cause. Lupus would be an intrarenal cause for AKI.

A client with acute kidney injury is receiving a fluid challenge of 500 mL of normal saline over 1 hour. With a drop factor of 20 drops/mL, how many drops per minute does the nurse infuse? _________

Correct Responses 167 drops/min 20 gtt × 500 mL = 10,000/60 min = 167 drops/min

Which factor represents a sign or symptom of digoxin toxicity? Serum digoxin level of 1.2 ng/mL Polyphagia Visual changes Correct Serum potassium of 5.0 mEq/L

Visual changes, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting are symptoms of digoxin toxicity. A digoxin level of 1.2 ng/mL is normal (0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL). Polyphagia is a symptom of diabetes. Although hypokalemia may predispose to digoxin toxicity, this represents a normal, not low, potassium value.

12. A client is taking furosemide (Lasix) 40 mg/day for management of chronic kidney disease (CKD). To detect the positive effect of the medication, what action of the nurse is best? a. Obtain daily weights of the client. b. Auscultate heart and breath sounds. c. Palpate the clients abdomen. d. Assess the clients diet history.

A Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that helps reduce fluid overload and hypertension in clients with early stages of CKD. One kilogram of weight equals about 1 liter of fluid retained in the client, so daily weights are necessary to monitor the response of the client to the medication. Heart and breath sounds should be assessed if there is fluid retention, as in heart failure. Palpation of the clients abdomen is not necessary, but the nurse should check for edema. The diet history of the client would be helpful to assess electrolyte replacement since potassium is lost with this diuretic, but this does not assess the effect of the medication.

8. A client in the intensive care unit is started on continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH). Which finding is the cause of immediate action by the nurse? a. Blood pressure of 76/58 mm Hg b. Sodium level of 138 mEq/L c. Potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L d. Pulse rate of 90 beats/min

A Hypotension can be a problem with CVVH if replacement fluid does not provide enough volume to maintain blood pressure. The specially trained nurse needs to monitor for ongoing fluid and electrolyte replacement. The sodium level is normal and the potassium level is slightly elevated, which could be normal findings for someone with acute kidney injury. A pulse rate of 90 beats/min is normal.

3. A male client comes into the emergency department with a serum creatinine of 2.2 mg/dL and a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 24 mL/dL. What question should the nurse ask first when taking this clients history? a. Have you been taking any aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen recently? b. Do you have anyone in your family with renal failure? c. Have you had a diet that is low in protein recently? d. Has a relative had a kidney transplant lately?

A There are some medications that are nephrotoxic, such as the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen. This would be a good question to initially ask the client since both the serum creatinine and BUN are elevated, indicating some renal problems. A family history of renal failure and kidney transplantation would not be part of the questioning and could cause anxiety in the client. A diet high in protein could be a factor in an increased BUN.

2. A marathon runner comes into the clinic and states I have not urinated very much in the last few days. The nurse notes a heart rate of 110 beats/min and a blood pressure of 86/58 mm Hg. Which action by the nurse is the priority? a. Give the client a bottle of water immediately. b. Start an intravenous line for fluids. c. Teach the client to drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily. d. Perform an electrocardiogram.

A This athlete is mildly dehydrated as evidenced by the higher heart rate and lower blood pressure. The nurse can start hydrating the client with a bottle of water first, followed by teaching the client to drink 2 to 3 liters of water each day. An intravenous line may be ordered later, after the clients degree of dehydration is assessed. An electrocardiogram is not necessary at this time.

When caring for a client with a left forearm arteriovenous fistula created for hemodialysis, which actions must the nurse take? (Select all that apply.) Check brachial pulses daily. Auscultate for a bruit every 8 hours. Correct Teach the client to palpate for a thrill over the site. Correct Elevate the arm above heart level. Ensure that no blood pressures are taken in that arm. Correct

A bruit or swishing sound, and a thrill or buzzing sensation upon palpation should be present in this client, indicating patency of the fistula. No blood pressure, venipuncture, or compression, such as lying on the fistula, should occur. Distal pulses and capillary refill should be checked, and for a forearm fistula, the radial pulse is checked—the brachial pulse is proximal. Elevating the arm increases venous return, possibly collapsing the fistula.

6. A client is undergoing hemodialysis. The clients blood pressure at the beginning of the procedure was 136/88 mm Hg, and now it is 110/54 mm Hg. What actions should the nurse perform to maintain blood pressure? (Select all that apply.) a. Adjust the rate of extracorporeal blood flow. b. Place the client in the Trendelenburg position. c. Stop the hemodialysis treatment. d. Administer a 250-mL bolus of normal saline. e. Contact the health care provider for orders.

A, B, D Hypotension occurs often during hemodialysis treatments as a result of vasodilation from the warmed dialysate. Modest decreases in blood pressure, as is the case with this client, can be maintained with rate adjustment, Trendelenburg positioning, and a fluid bolus. If the blood pressure drops considerably after two boluses and cooling dialysate, the hemodialysis can be stopped and the health care provider contacted.

1. A client in the intensive care unit with acute kidney injury (AKI) must maintain a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 65 mm Hg to promote kidney perfusion. What is the clients MAP if the blood pressure is 98/50 mm Hg? (Record your answer using a whole number.) _____ mm Hg

ANS: 66 mm Hg

A client awaiting kidney transplantation states, "I can't stand this waiting for a kidney, I just want to give up." Which statement by the nurse is most therapeutic? "I'll talk to the health care provider and have your name removed from the waiting list." "You sound frustrated with the situation." Correct "You're right, the wait is endless for some people." "I'm sure you'll get a phone call soon that a kidney is available."

Acknowledging the client's frustration reflects the feelings the client is having and offers assistance and support. Talking to the health care provider and removing the client from the waiting list does not allow the nurse to hear more and perhaps offer therapeutic listening or a solution to the problem. Telling the client that the wait is endless for some people cuts the client off from sharing his or her concerns and accentuates the negative aspects of the situation. The waiting time for kidney matches is increasing due to a shortage of organs; the nurse should not offer false hope by suggesting that the client will get a phone call soon.

Which medication is most effective in slowing the progression of kidney failure in a client with chronic kidney disease? Diltiazem (Cardizem) Lisinopril (Zestril) Correct Clonidine (Catapres) Doxazosin (Cardura)

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors such as lisinopril appear to be the most effective drugs to slow the progression of kidney failure. Calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem may indirectly prevent kidney disease by controlling hypertension, but are not specific to slowing progression of kidney disease. Vasodilators such as clonidine and doxazosin control blood pressure, but do not specifically protect from kidney disease.

The client is a 62-year-old admitted 2 days ago with traumatic injuries and hypovolemic shock from a car crash. The nurse reviewing the client's daily laboratory test results notices the following values. Which result is most important to report to the primary health care provider immediately? A. Serum sodium 132 mEq/L (mmol/L) B. Serum potassium 6.9 mEq/L (mmol/L) C. Blood urea nitrogen 24 mg/dL (mmol/L) D. Hematocrit 32% (0.32 volume fraction); hemoglobin 9.2 g/dL (92 g/L) (Page 2743).

B

24. A client is having a peritoneal dialysis treatment. The nurse notes an opaque color to the effluent. What is the priority action by the nurse? a. Warm the dialysate solution in a microwave before instillation. b. Take a sample of the effluent and send to the laboratory. c. Flush the tubing with normal saline to maintain patency of the catheter. d. Check the peritoneal catheter for kinking and curling.

B An opaque or cloudy effluent is the first sign of peritonitis. A sample of the effluent would need to be sent to the laboratory for culture and sensitivity in order to administer the correct antibiotic. Warming the dialysate in a microwave and flushing the tubing are not safe actions by the nurse. Checking the catheter for obstruction is a viable option but will not treat the peritonitis.

27. A client is recovering from a kidney transplant. The clients urine output was 1500 mL over the last 12-hour period since transplantation. What is the priority assessment by the nurse? a. Checking skin turgor b. Taking blood pressure c. Assessing lung sounds d. Weighing the client

B By taking blood pressure, the nurse is assessing for hypotension that could compromise perfusion to the new kidney. The nurse then should notify the provider immediately. Skin turgor, lung sounds, and weight could give information about the fluid status of the client, but they are not the priority assessment.

20. The nurse is teaching the main principles of hemodialysis to a client with chronic kidney disease. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching by the nurse? a. My sodium level changes by movement from the blood into the dialysate. b. Dialysis works by movement of wastes from lower to higher concentration. c. Extra fluid can be pulled from the blood by osmosis. d. The dialysate is similar to blood but without any toxins.

B Dialysis works using the passive transfer of toxins by diffusion. Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. The other statements show a correct understanding about hemodialysis.

9. The nurse is caring for four clients with chronic kidney disease. Which client should the nurse assess first upon initial rounding? a. Woman with a blood pressure of 158/90 mm Hg b. Client with Kussmaul respirations c. Man with skin itching from head to toe d. Client with halitosis and stomatitis

B Kussmaul respirations indicate a worsening of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The client is increasing the rate and depth of breathing to excrete carbon dioxide through the lungs. Hypertension is common in most clients with CKD, and skin itching increases with calcium-phosphate imbalances, another common finding in CKD. Uremia from CKD causes ammonia to be formed, resulting in the common findings of halitosis and stomatitis.

1. The nurse is assessing a client with a diagnosis of pre-renal acute kidney injury (AKI). Which condition would the nurse expect to find in the clients recent history? a. Pyelonephritis b. Myocardial infarction c. Bladder cancer d. Kidney stones

B Pre-renal causes of AKI are related to a decrease in perfusion, such as with a myocardial infarction. Pyelonephritis is an intrinsic or intrarenal cause of AKI related to kidney damage. Bladder cancer and kidney stones are post-renal causes of AKI related to urine flow obstruction.

4. A client is admitted with acute kidney injury (AKI) and a urine output of 2000 mL/day. What is the major concern of the nurse regarding this clients care? a. Edema and pain b. Electrolyte and fluid imbalance c. Cardiac and respiratory status d. Mental health status

B This client may have an inflammatory cause of AKI with proteins entering the glomerulus and holding the fluid in the filtrate, causing polyuria. Electrolyte loss and fluid balance is essential. Edema and pain are not usually a problem with fluid loss. There could be changes in the clients cardiac, respiratory, and mental health status if the electrolyte imbalance is not treated.

5. A nurse is giving discharge instructions to a client recently diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Which statements made by the client indicate a correct understanding of the teaching? (Select all that apply.) a. I can continue to take antacids to relieve heartburn. b. I need to ask for an antibiotic when scheduling a dental appointment. c. Ill need to check my blood sugar often to prevent hypoglycemia. d. The dose of my pain medication may have to be adjusted. e. I should watch for bleeding when taking my anticoagulants.

B, C, D, E In discharge teaching, the nurse must emphasize that the client needs to have an antibiotic prophylactically before dental procedures to prevent infection. There may be a need for dose reduction in medications if the kidney is not excreting them properly (antacids with magnesium, antibiotics, antidiabetic drugs, insulin, opioids, and anticoagulants).

4. The nurse is teaching a client with diabetes mellitus how to prevent or delay chronic kidney disease (CKD). Which client statements indicate a lack of understanding of the teaching? (Select all that apply.) a. I need to decrease sodium, cholesterol, and protein in my diet. b. My weight should be maintained at a body mass index of 30. c. Smoking should be stopped as soon as I possibly can. d. I can continue to take an aspirin every 4 to 8 hours for my pain. e. I really only need to drink a couple of glasses of water each day.

B, D, E Weight should be maintained at a body mass index (BMI) of 22 to 25. A BMI of 30 indicates obesity. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin should be limited to the lowest time at the lowest dose due to interference with kidney blood flow. The client should drink at least 2 liters of water daily. Diet adjustments should be made by restricting sodium, cholesterol, and protein. Smoking causes constriction of blood vessels and decreases kidney perfusion, so the client should stop smoking.

17. A client is placed on fluid restrictions because of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Which assessment finding would alert the nurse that the clients fluid balance is stable at this time? a. Decreased calcium levels b. Increased phosphorus levels c. No adventitious sounds in the lungs d. Increased edema in the legs

C The absence of adventitious sounds upon auscultation of the lungs indicates a lack of fluid overload and fluid balance in the clients body. Decreased calcium levels and increased phosphorus levels are common findings with CKD. Edema would indicate a fluid imbalance.

10. The charge nurse of the medical-surgical unit is making staff assignments. Which staff member should be assigned to a client with chronic kidney disease who is exhibiting a low-grade fever and a pericardial friction rub? a. Registered nurse who just floated from the surgical unit b. Registered nurse who just floated from the dialysis unit c. Registered nurse who was assigned the same client yesterday d. Licensed practical nurse with 5 years experience on this floor

C The client is exhibiting symptoms of pericarditis, which can occur with chronic kidney disease. Continuity of care is important to assess subtle differences in clients. Therefore, the registered nurse (RN) who was assigned to this client previously should again give care to this client. The float nurses would not be as knowledgeable about the unit and its clients. The licensed practical nurse may not have the education level of the RN to assess for pericarditis.

28. A nurse reviews these laboratory values of a client who returned from kidney transplantation 12 hours ago: Sodium 136 mEq/L Potassium 5 mEq/L Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 44 mg/dL Serum creatinine 2.5 mg/dL What initial intervention would the nurse anticipate? a. Start hemodialysis immediately. b. Discuss the need for peritoneal dialysis. c. Increase the dose of immunosuppression. d. Return the client to surgery for exploration.

C The client may need a higher dose of immunosuppressive medication as evidenced by the elevated BUN and serum creatinine levels. This increased dose may reverse the possible acute rejection of the transplanted kidney. The client does not need hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or further surgery at this point.

13. A client is diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). What is an ideal goal of treatment set by the nurse in the care plan to reduce the risk of pulmonary edema? a. Maintaining oxygen saturation of 89% b. Minimal crackles and wheezes in lung sounds c. Maintaining a balanced intake and output d. Limited shortness of breath upon exertion

C With an optimal fluid balance, the client will be more able to eject blood from the left ventricle without increased pressure in the left ventricle and pulmonary vessels. Other ideal goals are oxygen saturations greater than 92%, no auscultated crackles or wheezes, and no demonstrated shortness of breath.

The nurse wishes to reduce the incidence of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury. Which question by the nurse to the interdisciplinary health care team will result in reducing client exposure? "Should we filter air circulation?" "Can we use less radiographic contrast dye?" Correct "Should we add low-dose dobutamine?" "Should we decrease IV rates?"

Contrast dye is severely nephrotoxic, and other options can be used in its place. Air circulation and low-dose dopamine are not associated with nephrotoxicity. Pre-renal status results from decreased blood flow to the kidney, such as fluid loss or dehydration; IV fluids can correct this.

The nurse is preparing a client for discharge who developed an acute kidney injury during coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The nurse notices that the client has a serum creatinine of 1.2 mg/dL (106 mcmol/L) and a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 75 mL/kg/1.73 m2 . Which is the priority nursing action? A. Reminding the client to remain hydrated by drinking 500 mL of an electrolyte-based solution daily B. Encouraging the client to reduce protein intake to reduce creatinine production until the followup visit with the nephrologist occurs C. Checking the remaining values on the metabolic panel and informing the primary care provider of all results before the client is discharged D. Educating the client about the need for follow-up, including re-evaluation of serum creatinine with the primary care provider or nephrologist in 8-12 weeks (Page 2748).

D

When the nurse caring for a client with severe chronic kidney disease asks what dietary modifications he has made for the disease, he reports the following actions. Which action indicates to the nurse that additional client education is needed? A. Using a scale to measure protein weight B. Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements daily C. Eliminating bananas, citrus fruits, and avocados D. Using a salt-substitute instead of ordinary table salt (Page 2767).

D

14. A client has a long history of hypertension. Which category of medications would the nurse expect to be ordered to avoid chronic kidney disease (CKD)? a. Antibiotic b. Histamine blocker c. Bronchodilator d. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor

D ACE inhibitors stop the conversion of angiotensin I to the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. This category of medication also blocks bradykinin and prostaglandin, increases renin, and decreases aldosterone, which promotes vasodilation and perfusion to the kidney. Antibiotics fight infection, histamine blockers decrease inflammation, and bronchodilators increase the size of the bronchi; none of these medications helps slow the progression of CKD in clients with hypertension.

23. A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for a dose of cefazolin and vitamins at this time. Hemodialysis for this client is also scheduled in 60 minutes. Which action by the nurse is best? a. Administer cefazolin since the level of the antibiotic must be maintained. b. Hold the vitamins but administer the cefazolin. c. Hold the cefazolin but administer the vitamins. d. Hold all medications since both cefazolin and vitamins are dialyzable.

D Both the cefazolin and the vitamins should be held until after the hemodialysis is completed because they would otherwise be removed by the dialysis process.

22. A client is assessed by the nurse after a hemodialysis session. The nurse notes bleeding from the clients nose and around the intravenous catheter. What action by the nurse is the priority? a. Hold pressure over the clients nose for 10 minutes. b. Take the clients pulse, blood pressure, and temperature. c. Assess for a bruit or thrill over the arteriovenous fistula. d. Prepare protamine sulfate for administration.

D Heparin is used with hemodialysis treatments. The bleeding alerts the nurse that too much anticoagulant is in the clients system and protamine sulfate should be administered. Pressure, taking vital signs, and assessing for a bruit or thrill are not as important as medication administration.

7. A client has just had a central line catheter placed that is specific for hemodialysis. What is the most appropriate action by the nurse? a. Use the catheter for the next laboratory blood draw. b. Monitor the central venous pressure through this line. c. Access the line for the next intravenous medication. d. Place a heparin or heparin/saline dwell after hemodialysis.

D The central line should have a heparin or heparin/saline dwell after hemodialysis treatment. The central line catheter used for dialysis should not be used for blood sampling, monitoring central venous pressures, or giving drugs or fluids.

26. A client with chronic kidney disease states, I feel chained to the hemodialysis machine. What is the nurses best response to the clients statement? a. That feeling will gradually go away as you get used to the treatment. b. You probably need to see a psychiatrist to see if you are depressed. c. Do you need help from social services to discuss financial aid? d. Tell me more about your feelings regarding hemodialysis treatment.

D The nurse needs to explore the clients feelings in order to help the client cope and enter a phase of acceptance or resignation. It is common for clients to be discouraged because of the dependency of the treatment, especially during the first year. Referrals to a mental health provider or social services are possibilities, but only after exploring the clients feelings first. Telling the client his or her feelings will go away is dismissive of the clients concerns.

5. A client with acute kidney injury has a blood pressure of 76/55 mm Hg. The health care provider ordered 1000 mL of normal saline to be infused over 1 hour to maintain perfusion. The client is starting to develop shortness of breath. What is the nurses priority action? a. Calculate the mean arterial pressure (MAP). b. Ask for insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter. c. Take the clients pulse. d. Slow down the normal saline infusion.

D The nurse should assess that the client could be developing fluid overload and respiratory distress and slow down the normal saline infusion. The calculation of the MAP also reflects perfusion. The insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter would evaluate the clients hemodynamic status, but this should not be the initial action by the nurse. Vital signs are also important after adjusting the intravenous infusion.

Discharge teaching has been provided for a client recovering from kidney transplantation. Which information indicates that the client understands the instructions? "I can stop my medications when my kidney function returns to normal." "If my urine output is decreased, I should increase my fluids." "The anti-rejection medications will be taken for life." Correct "I will drink 8 ounces of water with my medications."

Immune-suppressant therapy must be taken for life to prevent organ rejection. Adherence to immunosuppressive drugs is crucial to survival for clients with transplanted kidneys. Lack of adherence can lead to complications such as rejection, graft loss, return to dialysis, and death. Oliguria is a symptom of transplant rejection; the transplant team should be contacted immediately if this occurs. It is not necessary to take anti-rejection medication with 8 ounces of water.

Which problem excludes a client hoping to receive a kidney transplant from undergoing the procedure? History of hiatal hernia Presence of diabetes and glycosylated hemoglobin of 6.8% History of basal cell carcinoma on the nose 5 years ago Presence of tuberculosis Correct

Long-standing pulmonary disease and chronic infection typically exclude clients from transplantation; these conditions worsen with the immune suppressants that are required to prevent rejection. A client with a history of hiatal hernia is not exempt from undergoing a kidney transplant. Good control of diabetes is a positive point, and would not exclude the client from transplantation. Basal cell carcinoma is considered curable and occurred 5 years ago, consistent with appropriate candidates for transplantation.

When caring for a client who receives peritoneal dialysis (PD), which finding does the nurse report to the provider immediately? Pulse oximetry reading of 95% Sinus bradycardia, rate of 58 beats/min Blood pressure of 148/90 mm Hg Temperature of 101.2° F (38.4° C) Correct

Peritonitis is the major complication of PD, caused by intra-abdominal catheter site contamination; meticulous aseptic technique must be used when caring for PD equipment. A pulse oximetry reading of 95% is a normal saturation. Although a heart rate of 58 beats/min is slightly bradycardic, the provider can be informed upon visiting the client. Clients with kidney failure tend to have slightly higher blood pressures due to fluid retention; this is not as serious as a fever.

Which signs and symptoms indicate rejection of a transplanted kidney? (Select all that apply.) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 21 mg/dL, creatinine 0.9 mg/dL Crackles in the lung fields Correct Temperature of 98.8° F (37.1° C) Blood pressure of 164/98 mm Hg Correct 3+ edema of the lower extremities Correct

Signs and symptoms of fluid retention (e.g., crackles in the lung fields and 3+ edema of the lower extremities) indicate transplant rejection. Increased blood pressure is also a symptom of transplant rejection. Increasing BUN and creatinine are symptoms of rejection; a BUN of 21 mg/dL and a creatinine of 0.9 mg/dL reflect normal values. Fever, not normothermia, is symptomatic of transplant rejection.

The RN has just received change-of-shift report. Which of the assigned clients should be assessed first? Client with chronic kidney failure who was just admitted with shortness of breath Correct Client with kidney insufficiency who is scheduled to have an arteriovenous fistula inserted Client with azotemia whose blood urea nitrogen and creatinine are increasing Client receiving peritoneal dialysis who needs help changing the dialysate bag

The dyspnea of the client with chronic kidney failure may indicate pulmonary edema and should be assessed immediately. The client with kidney insufficiency is stable and assessment can be performed later. The client with azotemia requires assessment and possible interventions, but is not at immediate risk for life-threatening problems. The client receiving peritoneal dialysis can be seen last because it is a slow process and the client has no urgent needs.

A client admitted to the medical unit with a history of vomiting and diarrhea and an increased blood urea nitrogen requires 1 liter of normal saline infused over 2 hours. Which staff member should be assigned to care for the client? RN who has floated from pediatrics for this shift LPN/LVN with experience working on the medical unit RN who usually works on the general surgical unit Correct New graduate RN who just finished a 6-week orientation

The nurse with experience in taking care of surgical clients will be most capable of monitoring the client receiving rapid fluid infusions, who is at risk for complications such as pulmonary edema and acute kidney failure. The pediatric float RN and the new graduate RN will have less experience in caring for this type of client. The LPN/LVN should not be assigned to a client requiring IV therapy and who is at high risk for complications.

While assisting a client during peritoneal dialysis, the nurse observes the drainage stop after 200 mL of peritoneal effluent drains into the bag. What action should the nurse implement first? Instruct the client to deep-breathe and cough. Document the effluent as output. Turn the client to the opposite side. Correct Re-position the catheter.

With peritoneal dialysis, usually 1 to 2 L of dialysate is infused by gravity into the peritoneal space. The fluid dwells in the peritoneal cavity for a specified time, then drains by gravity into a drainage bag. The dialyzing fluid is called peritoneal effluent on outflow. The outflow should be a continuous stream after the clamp is completely open. Potential causes of flow difficulty include constipation, kinked or clamped connection tubing, the client's position, fibrin clot formation, and catheter displacement. If inflow or outflow drainage is inadequate, re-position the client to stimulate inflow or outflow. Turning the client to the other side or ensuring that he or she is in good body alignment may help. Instructing the client to deep-breathe and cough will not promote dialysate drainage. Increased abdominal pressure from coughing contributes to leakage at the catheter site. The nurse needs to measure and record the total amount of outflow after each exchange. However, the nurse should re-position the client first to assist with complete dialysate drainage. An x-ray is needed to identify peritoneal dialysis catheter placement. Only the physician re-positions a displaced catheter.

When assisting with dietary protein needs for a client on peritoneal dialysis, the nurse recommends that the client select which food? Eggs Correct Ham Eggplant Macaroni

Suggested protein-containing foods for a client on peritoneal dialysis are milk, meat, and eggs. Although a protein, ham is high in sodium, which should be avoided. Vegetables and pasta contain mostly carbohydrates. Peritoneal dialysis clients are allowed 1.2 to 1.5 g of protein/kg/day because protein is lost with each exchange.

15. A 70-kg adult with chronic renal failure is on a 40-g protein diet. The client has a reduced glomerular filtration rate and is not undergoing dialysis. Which result would give the nurse the most concern? a. Albumin level of 2.5 g/dL b. Phosphorus level of 5 mg/dL c. Sodium level of 135 mmol/L d. Potassium level of 5.5 mmol/L

A Protein restriction is necessary with chronic renal failure due to the buildup of waste products from protein breakdown. The nurse would be concerned with the low albumin level since this indicates that the protein in the diet is not enough for the clients metabolic needs. The electrolyte values are not related to the proteinrestricted diet.

11. A male client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is refusing to take his medication and has missed two hemodialysis appointments. What is the best initial action for the nurse? a. Discuss what the treatment regimen means to him. b. Refer the client to a mental health nurse practitioner. c. Reschedule the appointments to another date and time. d. Discuss the option of peritoneal dialysis.

A The initial action for the nurse is to assess anxiety, coping styles, and the clients acceptance of the required treatment for CKD. The client may be in denial of the diagnosis. While rescheduling hemodialysis appointments may help, and referral to a mental health practitioner and the possibility of peritoneal dialysis are all viable options, assessment of the clients acceptance of the treatment should come first.

6. A client has a serum potassium level of 6.5 mmol/L, a serum creatinine level of 2 mg/dL, and a urine output of 350 mL/day. What is the best action by the nurse? a. Place the client on a cardiac monitor immediately. b. Teach the client to limit high-potassium foods. c. Continue to monitor the clients intake and output. d. Ask to have the laboratory redraw the blood specimen.

A The priority action by the nurse should be to check the cardiac status with a monitor. High potassium levels can lead to dysrhythmias. The other choices are logical nursing interventions for acute kidney injury but not the best immediate action.

A 48-year-old African-American man is newly diagnosed with hypertension and Stage 1 chronic kidney disease (CKD). His primary health care provider has prescribed a thiazide diuretic. The client reports that he has increased his activity and changed his diet, which resulted in a 10-lb (4.5- kg) weight loss in the past 2 months. The client says he feels well and does not want to take any drugs. What is the nurse's best response? A. "Reducing your blood pressure may slow or prevent progression of your chronic kidney disease." B. "Your primary health care provider prescribed the diuretic because it will reverse the damage caused by kidney disease." C. "Taking medications is a personal decision, and you have the right to decline this prescription." D. "Because your lifestyle changes have resulted in weight loss, this intervention is all that is needed to reduce your risk for progression of kidney disease." (Page 2755).

A

16. The nurse is teaching a client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) about the sodium restriction needed in the diet to prevent edema and hypertension. Which statement by the client indicates more teaching is needed? a. I am thrilled that I can continue to eat fast food. b. I will cut out bacon with my eggs every morning. c. My cooking style will change by not adding salt. d. I will probably lose weight by cutting out potato chips.

A Fast food restaurants usually serve food that is high in sodium. This statement indicates that more teaching needs to occur. The other statements show a correct understanding of the teaching.

7. A client is unsure of the decision to undergo peritoneal dialysis (PD) and wishes to discuss the advantages of this treatment with the nurse. Which statements by the nurse are accurate regarding PD? (Select all that apply.) a. You will not need vascular access to perform PD. b. There is less restriction of protein and fluids. c. You will have no risk for infection with PD. d. You have flexible scheduling for the exchanges. e. It takes less time than hemodialysis treatments.

A, B, D PD is based on exchanges of waste, fluid, and electrolytes in the peritoneal cavity. There is no need for vascular access. Protein is lost in the exchange, which allows for more protein and fluid in the diet. There is flexibility in the time for exchanges, but the treatment takes a longer period of time compared to hemodialysis. There still is risk for infection with PD, especially peritonitis.

3. A client is hospitalized in the oliguric phase of acute kidney injury (AKI) and is receiving tube feedings. The nurse is teaching the clients spouse about the kidney-specific formulation for the enteral solution compared to standard formulas. What components should be discussed in the teaching plan? (Select all that apply.) a. Lower sodium b. Higher calcium c. Lower potassium d. Higher phosphorus e. Higher calories

A, C, E Many clients with AKI are too ill to meet caloric goals and require tube feedings with kidney-specific formulas that are lower in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, and higher in calories than are standard formulas.

2. A nurse is caring for a postoperative 70-kg client who had major blood loss during surgery. Which findings by the nurse should prompt immediate action to prevent acute kidney injury? (Select all that apply.) a. Urine output of 100 mL in 4 hours b. Urine output of 500 mL in 12 hours c. Large amount of sediment in the urine d. Amber, odorless urine e. Blood pressure of 90/60 mm Hg

A, C, E The low urine output, sediment, and blood pressure should be reported to the provider. Postoperatively, the nurse should measure intake and output, check the characteristics of the urine, and report sediment, hematuria, and urine output of less than 0.5 mL/kg/hour for 3 to 4 hours. A urine output of 100 mL is low, but a urine output of 500 mL in 12 hours should be within normal limits. Perfusion to the kidneys is compromised with low blood pressure. The amber odorless urine is normal.

Which actions/interventions are most important for the nurse to perform when caring for a 70- year-old client who is scheduled for a contrast-medium enhanced CT scan? Select all that apply. A. Assess for coexisting conditions of pre-existing diabetes, heart failure, and established CKD. B. Assess the hourly urine output for at least 6 hours before the procedure. C. Assess creatinine clearance using a 24-hour urine collection test. D. Alert the primary health care provider to a serum creatinine that has increased from 0.2 to 0.4 mg/dL (20-40 mcmol/L) in the previous 24 hours. E. Alert the primary health care provider to a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 . F. Assess for hypovolemia, including evaluation of the mean arterial pressure (MAP). G. Collaborate with the primary health care provider to determine whether isotonic IV fluids should be infused before the test. H. Discuss with the primary health care provider about whether the client's prescribed diuretic should be held immediately before the test. (Page 2745).

A, E, F, G

Which finding in the first 24 hours after kidney transplantation requires immediate intervention? Abrupt decrease in urine output Correct Blood-tinged urine Incisional pain Increase in urine output

An abrupt decrease in urine output may indicate complications such as rejection, acute kidney injury, thrombosis, or obstruction. Blood-tinged urine, incisional pain, and an increase in urine output are expected findings after kidney transplantation

The nurse assists a client with acute kidney injury (AKI) to modify the diet in which ways? (Select all that apply.) Restricted protein Correct Liberal sodium Restricted fluids Correct Low potassium Correct Low fat

Breakdown of protein leads to azotemia and increased blood urea nitrogen. Fluid is restricted during the oliguric stage. Potassium intoxication may occur, so dietary potassium is also restricted. Sodium is restricted during AKI because oliguria causes fluid retention. Fats may be used for needed calories when proteins are restricted.

When caring for a client with acute kidney injury and a temporary subclavian hemodialysis catheter, which assessment finding does the nurse report to the provider? Mild discomfort at the insertion site Temperature 100.8° F Correct 1+ ankle edema Anorexia

Infection is a major complication of temporary catheters. All symptoms of infection, including fever, must be reported to the provider because the catheter may have to be removed. Mild discomfort at the insertion site is expected with a subclavian hemodialysis catheter. During acute injury, oliguria with resulting fluid retention is expected. Rising blood urea nitrogen may result in anorexia, nausea, and vomiting.

The nurse teaches a client who is recovering from acute kidney disease to avoid which type of medication? Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Correct Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors Opiates Calcium channel blockers

NSAIDs may be nephrotoxic to a client with acute kidney disease, and should be avoided. ACE inhibitors are used for treatment of hypertension and to protect the kidneys, especially in the diabetic client, from progression of kidney disease. Opiates may be used by clients with kidney disease if severe pain is present; however, excretion may be delayed. Calcium channel blockers can improve the glomerular filtration rate and blood flow within the kidney.

While managing care for a client with chronic kidney disease, which actions does the registered nurse (RN) plan to delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? (Select all that apply.) Obtain the client's pre-hemodialysis weight. Correct Check the arteriovenous (AV) fistula for a thrill and bruit. Document the amount the client drinks throughout the shift. Correct Auscultate the client's lung sounds every 4 hours. Explain the components of a low-sodium diet.

Obtaining the client's weight and documenting oral fluid intake are routine tasks that can be performed by UAP. Assessment skills (checking the AV fistula and auscultating lung sounds) and client education (explaining special diet) require more education and are in the legal scope of practice of the RN.

Which clients are at risk for acute kidney injury (AKI)? (Select all that apply.) Football player in preseason practice Correct Client who underwent contrast dye radiology Correct Accident victim recovering from a severe hemorrhage Correct Accountant with diabetes Client in the intensive care unit on high doses of antibiotics Correct Client recovering from gastrointestinal influenza Correct

To prevent AKI, all people should be urged to avoid dehydration by drinking at least 2 to 3 liters of fluids daily, especially during strenuous exercise or work associated with diaphoresis, or when recovering from an illness that reduces kidney blood flow, such as influenza. Contrast media may cause acute renal failure, especially in older clients with reduced kidney function. Recent surgery or trauma, transfusions, or other factors that might lead to reduced kidney blood flow may cause AKI. Certain antibiotics may cause nephrotoxicity. Diabetes may cause acute kidney failure superimposed on chronic kidney failure.