MED-SURG III: URINARY
1. Which classification of urinary tract infection (UTI) is described as infection of the renal parenchyma, renal pelvis, and ureters? a. Upper UTI c. Complicated UTI b. Lower UTI d. Uncomplicated UTI
1. a. An upper urinary tract infection (UTI) affects the renal parenchyma, renal pelvis, and ureters. A lower UTI is an infection of the bladder and/or urethra. A complicated UTI exists in the presence of obstruction, stones, or preexisting diseases. An uncomplicated UTI occurs in an otherwise normal urinary tract.
1. A renal stone in the pelvis of the kidney will alter the function of the kidney by interfering with a. the structural support of the kidney. b. regulation of the concentration of urine. c. the entry and exit of blood vessels at the kidney. d. collection and drainage of urine from the kidney.
1. d
1. In teaching a patient with pyelonephritis about the disorder, the nurse informs the patient that the organisms that cause pyelone- phritis most commonly reach the kidneys through a. the bloodstream. b. the lymphatic system. c. a descending infection. d. an ascending infection.
1. d,
1. What are intrarenal causes of acute kidney injury (AKI) (select all that apply)? a. Anaphylaxis b. Renal stones c. Bladder cancer d. Nephrotoxic drugs e. Acute glomerulonephritis f. Tubular obstruction by myoglobin
1. d, e, f. Intrarenal causes of acute kidney injury (AKI) include conditions that cause direct damage to the kidney tissue, including nephrotoxic drugs, acute glomerulonephritis, and tubular obstruction by myoglobin, or prolonged ischemia. Anaphylaxis and other prerenal problems are frequently the initial cause of AKI. Renal stones and bladder cancer are among the postrenal causes of AKI.
10. A patient with a ureterolithotomy returns from surgery with a nephrostomy tube in place. Postoperative nursing care of the patient includes a. encouraging the patient to drink fruit juices and milk. b. encouraging uids of at least 2 to 3 L/day a er nausea has subsided. c. irrigating the nephrostomy tube with 10 mL of normal saline solution as needed. d. notifying the physician if nephrostomy tube drainage is more than 30 mL/hr..
10. b,
10. Glomerulonephritis is characterized by glomerular damage caused by a. growth of microorganisms in the glomeruli. b. release of bacterial substances toxic to the glomeruli. c. accumulation of immune complexes in the glomeruli. d. hemolysis of red blood cells circulating in the glomeruli.
10. c. Glomerulonephritis is not an infection but rather an antibody-induced injury to the glomerulus, where either autoantibodies against the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) directly damage the tissue or antibodies reacting with nonglomerular antigens are randomly deposited as immune complexes along the GBM. Prior infection by bacteria or viruses may stimulate the antibody production but is not present or active at the time of glomerular damage.
10. What is a factor that contributes to an increased incidence of urinary tract infections in aging women? a. Length of the urethra c. Relaxation of pelvic floor and bladder muscles b. Larger capacity of bladder d. Tight muscular support at the urinary sphincter
10. c. Relaxation of female urethra, bladder, vagina, and pelvic floor muscles may contribute to stress and urge incontinence and urinary tract infections. The short urethra of women allows easier ascension and colonization of bacteria in the bladder than occurs in men and the urethra does not lengthen with age. The bladder capacity of men and women is the same but decreases with aging.
10. In caring for the patient with AKI, what should the nurse be aware of? a. The most common cause of death in AKI is irreversible metabolic acidosis. b. During the oliguric phase of AKI, daily fluid intake is limited to 1000 mL plus the prior day's measured fluid loss. c. Dietary sodium and potassium during the oliguric phase of AKI are managed according to the patient's urinary output. d. One of the most important nursing measures in managing fluid balance in the patient with AKI is taking accurate daily weights.
10. d. Measuring daily weights with the same scale at the same time each day allows for the evaluation and detection of excessive body fluid gains or losses. Infection is the leading cause of death in AKI, so meticulous aseptic technique is critical. The fluid limitation in the oliguric phase is 600 mL plus the prior day's measured fluid loss. Dietary sodium and potassium intake are managed according to the plasma levels.
11. A 68-year-old man with a history of heart failure resulting from hypertension has AKI as a result of the effects of nephrotoxic diuretics. Currently his serum potassium is 6.2 mEq/L (6.2 mmol/L) with cardiac changes, his BUN is 108 mg/dL (38.6 mmol/L), his serum creatinine is 4.1 mg/dL (362 mmol/L), and his serum HCO − is 14 mEq/L 3 (14 mmol/L). He is somnolent and disoriented. Which treatment should the nurse expect to be used for him? a. Loop diuretics b. Renal replacement therapy c. Insulin and sodium bicarbonate d. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate)
11. b. This patient has at least three of the six common indications for renal replacement therapy (RRT), including (1) high potassium level, (2) metabolic acidosis, and (3) changed mental status. The other indications are (4) volume overload, resulting in compromised cardiac status (this patient has a history of hypertension), (5) BUN greater than 120 mg/dL, and (6) pericarditis, pericardial effusion, or cardiac tamponade. Although the other treatments may be used, they will not be as effective as RRT for this older patient. Loop diuretics and increased fluid are used if the patient is dehydrated. Insulin and sodium bicarbonate can be used to temporarily drive the potassium into the cells. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is used to actually decrease the amount of potassium in the body.
11. A patient has had a cystectomy and ileal conduit diversion performed. Four days postoperatively, mucous shreds are seen in the drainage bag. e nurse should a. notify the physician. b. notify the charge nurse. c. irrigate the drainage tube. d. chart it as a normal observation
11. d
11. What manifestation in the patient will indicate the need for restriction of dietary protein in management of acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN)? a. Hematuria c. Hypertension b. Proteinuria d. Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
11. d. An elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) indicates that the kidneys are not clearing nitrogenous wastes from the blood and protein may be restricted until the kidney recovers. Proteinuria indicates loss of protein from the blood and possibly a need for increased protein intake. Hypertension is treated with sodium and fluid restriction, diuretics, and antihypertensive drugs. The hematuria is not specifically treated.
11. A 78-year-old man asks the nurse why he has to urinate so much at night. The nurse should explain to the patient that as an older adult, what may contribute to his nocturia? a. Decreased renal mass c. Decreased ability to conserve sodium b. Decreased detrusor muscle tone d. Decreased ability to concentrate urine
11. d. Decreased renal blood flow and altered hormone levels result in a decreased ability to concentrate urine that results in an increased volume of dilute urine, which does not maintain the usual diurnal elimination pattern. A decrease in bladder capacity also contributes to nocturia but decreased bladder muscle tone results in urinary retention. Decreased renal mass decreases renal reserve but function is generally adequate under normal circumstances.
12. Prevention of AKI is important because of the high mortality rate. Which patients are at increased risk for AKI (select all that apply)? a. An 86-year-old woman scheduled for a cardiac catheterization b. A 48-year-old man with multiple injuries from a motor vehicle accident c. A 32-year-old woman following a C-section delivery for abruptio placentae d. A 64-year-old woman with chronic heart failure admitted with bloody stools e. A 58-year-old man with prostate cancer undergoing preoperative workup for prostatectomy
12. a, b, c, d, e. High-risk patients include those exposed to nephrotoxic agents and advanced age (a), massive trauma (b), prolonged hypovolemia or hypotension (possibly b and c), obstetric complications (c), cardiac failure (d), preexisting chronic kidney disease, extensive burns, or sepsis. Patients with prostate cancer may have obstruction of the outflow tract, which increases risk of postrenal AKI (e).
12. The nurse plans care for the patient with APSGN based on what knowledge? a. Most patients with APSGN recover completely or rapidly improve with conservative management. b. Chronic glomerulonephritis leading to renal failure is a common sequela to acute glomerulonephritis. c. Pulmonary hemorrhage may occur as a result of antibodies also attacking the alveolar basement membrane. d. A large percentage of patients with APSGN develop rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis, resulting in kidney failure.
12. a. Most patients recover completely from acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) with supportive treatment. Chronic glomerulonephritis that progresses insidiously over years and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis that results in renal failure within weeks or months occur in only a few patients with APSGN. In Goodpasture syndrome, antibodies are present against both the GBM and the alveolar basement membrane of the lungs and dysfunction of both renal and pulmonary are present.
13. Priority Decision: A patient on a medical unit has a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L. What is the priority action that the nurse should take? a. Place the patient on a cardiac monitor. b. Check the patient's blood pressure (BP). c. Instruct the patient to avoid high-potassium foods. d. Call the lab and request a redraw of the lab to verify results.
13. a. Dysrhythmias may occur with an elevated potassium level and are potentially lethal. Monitor the rhythm while contacting the physician or calling the rapid response team. Vital signs should be checked. Depending on the patient's history and cause of increased potassium, instruct the patient about dietary sources of potassium; however, this would not help at this point. The nurse may want to recheck the value but until then the heart rhythm needs to be monitored.
13. What results in the edema associated with nephrotic syndrome? a. Hypercoagulability c. Decreased plasma oncotic pressure b. Hyperalbuminemia d. Decreased glomerular filtration rate
13. c. The massive proteinuria that results from increased glomerular membrane permeability in nephrotic syndrome leaves the blood without adequate proteins (hypoalbuminemia) to create an oncotic colloidal pressure to hold fluid in the vessels. Without oncotic pressure, fluid moves into the interstitium, causing severe edema. Hypercoagulability occurs in nephrotic syndrome but is not a factor in edema formation and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is not necessarily affected in nephrotic syndrome.
13. What accurately describes a normal physical assessment of the urinary system by the nurse? a. Auscultates the lower abdominal quadrants for fluid sounds b. Palpates an empty bladder at the level of the symphysis pubis c. Percusses the kidney with a firm blow at the posterior costovertebral angle d. Positions the patient prone to palpate the kidneys with a posterior approach
13. c. To assess for kidney tenderness, the nurse strikes the fist of one hand over the dorsum of the other hand at the posterior costovertebral angle. The upper abdominal quadrants and costovertebral angles are auscultated for vascular bruits in the renal vessels and aorta and an empty bladder is not palpable. The kidneys are palpated through the abdomen, with the patient supine.
14. A patient with AKI has a serum potassium level of 6.7 mEq/L (6.7 mmol/L) and the following arterial blood gas results: pH 7.28, PaCO 30 mm Hg, PaO 86 mm Hg, HCO − 18 mEq/L (18 mmol/L). The nurse recognizes that 223 a. pH b. Potassium level c. Bicarbonate level d. Carbon dioxide level
14. b. During acidosis, potassium moves out of the cell in exchange for H+ ions, increasing the serum potassium level. Correction of the acidosis with sodium bicarbonate will help to shift the potassium back into the cells. A decrease in pH and the bicarbonate and PaCO2 levels would indicate worsening acidosis.
14. The patient complains of "wetting when she sneezes." How should the nurse document this information? a. Nocturia c. Urge incontinence b. Micturition d. Stress incontinence
14. d. Stress incontinence is involuntary urination with increased pressure when sneezing or coughing and is seen with weakness of sphincter control. Nocturia is frequent urination at night. Micturition is the evacuation of urine. Urge incontinence is involuntary urination is preceded by urinary urgency.
15. The physician documented that the patient has urinary retention. How should the nurse explain this when the nursing student asks what it is? a. Inability to void c. Large amount of urine output b. No urine formation d. Increased incidence of urination
15. a. Retention is the inability to void. Anuria is no urine formation. Polyuria is a large amount of urine output over time. Frequency is increased incidence of urination.
15. In replying to a patient's questions about the seriousness of her chronic kidney disease (CKD), the nurse knows that the stage of CKD is based on what? a. Total daily urine output b. Glomerular filtration rate c. Degree of altered mental status d. Serum creatinine and urea levels
15. b. Stages of chronic kidney disease are based on the GFR. No specific markers of urinary output, mental status, or azotemia classify the degree of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
15. Which infection is asymptomatic in the male patient at first and then progresses to cystitis, frequent urination, burning on voiding, and epididymitis? a. Urosepsis c. Urethral diverticula b. Renal tuberculosis d. Goodpasture syndrome
15. b. The manifestations of renal tuberculosis are described. Urosepsis is when the UTI has spread systemically. Urethral diverticula are localized outpouching of the urethra and occur more often in women. Goodpasture syndrome manifests with flu-like symptoms with pulmonary symptoms that include cough, shortness of breath, and pulmonary insufficiency and renal manifestations that include hematuria, weakness, pallor, anemia, and renal failure.
16. The patient with CKD is receiving dialysis, and the nurse observes excoriations on the patient's skin. What pathophysiologic changes in CKD can contribute to this finding (select all that apply)? a. Dry skin b. Sensory neuropathy c. Vascular calcifications d. Calcium-phosphate skin deposits e. Uremic crystallization from high BUN
16. a, b, d. Pruritus is common in patients receiving dialysis. It causes scratching from dry skin, sensory neuropathy, and calcium-phosphate deposition in the skin. Vascular calcifications contribute to cardiovascular disease, not to itching skin. Uremic frost rarely occurs without BUN levels greater than 200 mg/dL, which should not occur in a patient on dialysis; urea crystallizes on the skin and also causes pruritis.
16. The male patient is admitted with a diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). What urination characteristics should the nurse expect to assess in this patient? a. Oliguria c. Hematuria b. Hesitancy d. Pneumaturia
16. b. Hesitancy is difficulty starting the urine stream and is common with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Oliguria is scanty urine formation and output. Hematuria is blood in the urine. Pneumaturia is urine containing gas, as is caused by a fistula between the bowel and bladder.
16. What can patients at risk for renal lithiasis do to prevent the stones in many cases? a. Lead an active lifestyle c. Drink enough fluids to produce dilute urine b. Limit protein and acidic foods in the diet d. Take prophylactic antibiotics to control UTIs
16. c. Because crystallization of stone constituents can precipitate and unite to form a stone when in supersaturated concentrations, one of the best ways to prevent stones of any type is by drinking adequate fluids to keep the urine dilute and flowing (e.g., an output of about 2 L of urine a day). Sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for renal stones but exercise also causes fluid loss and a need for additional fluids. Protein foods high in purine should be restricted only for the small percentage of patients with uric acid stones and although UTIs contribute to stone formation, prophylactic antibiotics are not indicated.
17. Which type of urinary tract calculi are the most common and frequently obstruct the ureter? a. Cystine c. Calcium oxalate b. Uric acid d. Calcium phosphate
17. c. Calcium oxalate calculi are most common and small enough to get trapped in the ureter.
17. The mother of an 8-year-old girl has brought her child to the clinic because she is wetting the bed at night. What terminology should the nurse use when documenting this situation? a. Ascites c. Enuresis b. Dysuria d. Urgency
17. c. Enuresis is involuntary urination at night. Ascites is excess fluid in the intraperitoneal cavity. Dysuria is painful urination. Urgency is the feeling of needing to void immediately.
17. What causes the gastrointestinal (GI) manifestation of stomatitis in the patient with CKD? a. High serum sodium levels b. Irritation of the GI tract from creatinine c. Increased ammonia from bacterial breakdown of urea d. Iron salts, calcium-containing phosphate binders, and limited fluid intake
17. c. Uremic fetor, or the urine odor of the breath, is caused by high urea content in the blood. Increased ammonia from bacterial breakdown of urea leads to stomatitis and mucosal ulcerations. Irritation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract from urea in CKD contributes to anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Ingestion of iron salts and calcium-containing phosphate binders, limited fluid intake, and limited activity cause constipation.
18. A urinalysis of a urine specimen that is not processed within 1 hour may result in erroneous measurement of a. glucose. c. specific gravity. b. bacteria. d. white blood cells.
18. b. Bacteria in warm urine specimens multiply rapidly and false or unreliable bacterial counts may occur with urine that has been sitting for periods of time. Glucose, specific gravity, and WBCs do not change in urine specimens but pH becomes more alkaline, RBCs are hemolyzed, and casts may disintegrate.
18. The female patient with a UTI also has renal calculi. The nurse knows that these are most likely which type of stone? a. Cystine c. Uric acid b. Struvite d. Calcium phosphate
18. b. Struvite calculi are most common in women and always occur with UTIs. They are also usually large staghorn type
18. The patient with CKD is brought to the emergency department with Kussmaul respirations. What does the nurse know about CKD that could cause this patient's Kussmaul respirations? a. Uremic pleuritis is occurring. b. There is decreased pulmonary macrophage activity. c. They are caused by respiratory compensation for metabolic acidosis. d. Pulmonary edema from heart failure and fluid overload is occurring.
18. c. Kussmaul respirations occur with severe metabolic acidosis when the respiratory system is attempting to compensate by removing carbon dioxide with exhalations. Uremic pleuritis would cause a pleural friction rub. Decreased pulmonary macrophage activity increases the risk of pulmonary infection. Dyspnea would occur with pulmonary edema.
19. The male patient is Jewish, has a history of gout, and has been diagnosed with renal calculi. Which treatment will be used with this patient (select all that apply)? a. Reduce dietary oxalate b. Administer allopurinol c. Administer α-penicillamine d. Administer thiazide diuretics e. Reduce animal protein intake f. Reduce intake of milk products
19. b, e. This patient is most likely to have uric acid calculi, which have a high incidence in Jewish men, and gout is a predisposing factor. The treatment will include allopurinol and reducing animal protein intake to reduce purine, as uric acid is a waste product from purine metabolism. Reducing oxalate and using thiazide diuretics help to treat calcium oxalate calculi. Administration of α-penicillamine and tiopronin prevent cystine crystallization for cystine calculi. Reducing intake of milk products to reduce calcium intake may be used with calcium calculi.
19. Which urinalysis results most likely indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI)? a. Yellow; protein 6 mg/dL; pH 6.8; 102/mL bacteria b. Cloudy, yellow; WBC >5/hpf; pH 8.2; numerous casts c. Cloudy, brown; ammonia odor; specific gravity 1.030; RBC 3/hpf d. Clear; colorless; glucose: trace; ketones: trace; osmolality 500 mOsm/kg (500 mmol/kg)
19. b. Cloudiness in a fresh urine specimen, WBC count above 5 per high-power field (hpf), and the presence of casts are all indicative of urinary tract infection (UTI). The pH is usually elevated because bacteria in urine split the urea alkaline ammonia. Cloudy, brown urine usually indicates hematuria or the presence of bile. Colorless urine is usually very dilute. Option a is characteristic of normal urine.
19. Which serum laboratory value indicates to the nurse that the patient's CKD is getting worse? a. Decreased BUN b. Decreased sodium c. Decreased creatinine d. Decreased calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
19. d. As GFR decreases, BUN and serum creatinine levels increase. Although elevated BUN and creatinine indicate that waste products are accumulating, the calculated GFR is considered a more accurate indicator of kidney function than BUN or serum creatinine.
2. A patient with kidney disease has oliguria and a creatinine clear- ance of 40 mL/min. ese ndings most directly re ect abnormal function of a. tubular secretion. b. glomerular ltration. c. capillary permeability. d. concentration of ltrate.
2. b
2. the nurse teaches the female patient who has frequent UTIs that she should a. take tub baths with bubble bath. b. urinate before and a er sexual intercourse. c. take prophylactic sulfonamides for the rest of her life. d. restrict uid intake to prevent the need for frequent voiding.
2. b,
2. An 83-year-old female patient was found lying on the bathroom floor. She said she fell 2 days ago and has not been able to take her heart medicine or eat or drink anything since then. What conditions could be causing prerenal AKI in this patient (select all that apply)? a. Anaphylaxis b. Renal calculi c. Hypovolemia d. Nephrotoxic drugs e. Decreased cardiac output
2. c, e. Because the patient has had nothing to eat or drink for 2 days, she is probably dehydrated and hypovolemic. Decreased cardiac output (CO) is most likely because she is older and takes heart medicine, which is probably for heart failure or hypertension. Both hypovolemia and decreased CO cause prerenal AKI. Anaphylaxis is also a cause of prerenal AKI but is not likely in this situation. Nephrotoxic drugs would contribute to intrarenal causes of AKI and renal calculi would be a postrenal cause of AKI.
2. While caring for a 77-year-old woman who has a urinary catheter, the nurse monitors the patient for the development of a UTI. What clinical manifestations is the patient most likely to experience? a. Cloudy urine and fever b. Urethral burning and bloody urine c. Vague abdominal discomfort and disorientation d. Suprapubic pain and slight decline in body temperature
2. c. The usual classic manifestations of UTI are often absent in older adults, who tend to experience nonlocalized abdominal discomfort and cognitive impairment characterized by confusion or decreased level of consciousness rather than dysuria and suprapubic pain.
20. Which urine specific gravity value would indicate to the nurse that the patient is receiving excessive IV fluid therapy? a. 1.002 c. 1.025 b. 1.010 d. 1.030
20. a. A urine specific gravity of 1.002 is low, indicating dilute urine and the excretion of excess fluid. Fluid overload, diuretics, or lack of ADH can cause dilute urine. Normal urine specific gravity is 1.003 to 1.030. A high urine specific gravity indicates concentrated urine that would be seen in dehydration.
20. Besides being mixed with struvite or oxalate stones, what characteristic is associated with calcium phosphate calculi? a. Associated with alkaline urine b. Genetic autosomal recessive defect c. Three times as common in women as in men d. Defective gastrointestinal (GI) and kidney absorption
20. a. Calcium phosphate calculi are typically mixed with struvite or oxalate stones and related to alkaline urine. Cystine calculi are associated with a genetic autosomal recessive defect and defective GI and kidney absorption of cystine. Struvite calculi are three to four times more common in women than in men.
20. What is the most serious electrolyte disorder associated with kidney disease? a. Hypocalcemia b. Hyperkalemia c. Hyponatremia d. Hypermagnesemia
20. b. Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening dysrhythmias. Hypocalcemia leads to an accelerated rate of bone remodeling and potentially to tetany. Hyponatremia may lead to confusion. Elevated sodium levels lead to edema, hypertension, and heart failure. Hypermagnesemia may decrease reflexes, mental status, and blood pressure.
21. On assessment of the patient with a renal calculus passing down the ureter, what should the nurse expect the patient to report? a. A history of chronic UTIs b. Dull, costovertebral flank pain c. Severe, colicky back pain radiating to the groin d. A feeling of bladder fullness with urgency and frequency
21. c. A classic sign of the passage of a calculus down the ureter is intense, colicky back pain that may radiate into the testicles, labia, or groin and may be accompanied by mild shock with cool, moist skin. Many patients with renal stones do not have a history of chronic UTIs. Stones obstructing a calyx or at the ureteropelvic junction may produce dull costovertebral flank pain and large bladder stones may cause bladder fullness and lower obstructive symptoms.
21. For a patient with CKD the nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of risk for injury: fracture related to alterations in calcium and phosphorus metabolism. What is the pathologic process directly related to the increased risk for fractures? a. Loss of aluminum through the impaired kidneys b. Deposition of calcium phosphate in soft tissues of the body c. Impaired vitamin D activation resulting in decreased GI absorption of calcium d. Increased release of parathyroid hormone in response to decreased calcium levels
21. c. The calcium-phosphorus imbalances that occur in CKD result in hypocalcemia, from a deficiency of active vitamin D and increased phosphorus levels. This leads to an increased rate of bone remodeling with a weakened bone matrix. Aluminum accumulation is also believed to contribute to the osteomalacia. Osteitis fibrosa involves replacement of calcium in the bone with fibrous tissue and is primarily a result of elevated levels of parathyroid hormone resulting from hypocalcemia.
21. Priority Decision: After a patient had a renal arteriogram and is back on the clinical unit, what is the most important action by the nurse? a. Observe for gross bleeding in the urine. b. Place the patient in high Fowler's position. c. Monitor the patient for signs of allergy to the contrast medium. d. Assess peripheral pulses in the involved leg every 30 to 60 minutes.
21. d. During a renal arteriogram, a catheter is inserted, most commonly at the femoral artery. Following the procedure the patient is positioned with the affected leg extended with a pressure dressing applied. Peripheral pulse monitoring is essential to detect the development of thrombi around the insertion site, which may occlude blood supply to the leg. Gross bleeding in the urine is a complication of a renal biopsy. Allergy to the contrast medium should be established before the procedure.
22. Which test is most specific for renal function? a. Renal scan c. Creatinine clearance b. Serum creatinine d. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
22. c. The rate at which creatinine is cleared from the blood and eliminated in the urine approximates the GFR and is the most specific test of renal function. The renal scan is useful in showing the location, size, and shape of the kidney and general blood perfusion.
22. Priority Decision: What is the most appropriate snack for the nurse to offer a patient with stage 4 CKD? a. Raisins b. Ice cream c. Dill pickles d. Hard candy
22. d. A patient with CKD may have unlimited intake of sugars and starches (unless the patient is diabetic) and hard candy is an appropriate snack and may help to relieve the metallic and urine taste that is common in the mouth. Raisins are a high-potassium food. Ice cream contains protein and phosphate and counts as fluid. Pickled foods have high sodium content.
22. Prevention of calcium oxalate stones would include dietary restriction of which foods or drinks? a. Milk and milk products c. Liver, kidney, and sweetbreads b. Dried beans and dried fruits d. Spinach, cabbage, and tomatoes
22. d. Oxalate-rich foods should be limited to reduce oxalate excretion. Foods high in oxalate include spinach, rhubarb, asparagus, cabbage, and tomatoes, in addition to chocolate, coffee, and cocoa. Currently, it is believed that high dietary calcium intake may actually lower the risk for renal stones by reducing the intestinal oxalate absorption and therefore the urinary excretion of oxalate. Milk, milk products, dried beans, and dried fruits are high sources of calcium. Organ meats are high in purine, which contributes to uric acid lithiasis.
23. Which complication of chronic kidney disease is treated with erythropoietin (EPO)? a. Anemia b. Hypertension c. Hyperkalemia d. Mineral and bone disorder
23. a. Erythropoietin is used to treat anemia, as it stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells.
23. What is the most likely reason that the BUN would be increased in a patient? a. Has impaired renal function c. Has decreased urea in the urine b. Has not eaten enough protein d. May have nonrenal tissue destruction
23. a. The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is increased in patients with renal problems. It may also be increased when there is rapid or extensive tissue damage from other causes. Low protein intake may cause a low BUN.
23. Priority Decision: Following electrohydraulic lithotripsy for treatment of renal calculi, the patient has a nursing diagnosis of risk for infection related to the introduction of bacteria following manipulation of the urinary tract. What is the most appropriate nursing intervention for this patient? a. Monitor for hematuria. c. Apply moist heat to the flank area. b. Encourage fluid intake of 3 L/day. d. Strain all urine through gauze or a special strainer.
23. b. A high fluid intake maintains dilute urine, which decreases bacterial concentration in addition to washing stone fragments and expected blood through the urinary system following lithotripsy. High urine output also prevents supersaturation of minerals. Moist heat to the flank may be helpful to relieve muscle spasms during renal colic and all urine should be strained in patients with renal stones to collect and identify stone composition but these are not related to infection.
24. The patient with CKD asks why she is receiving nifedipine (Procardia) and furosemide (Lasix). The nurse understands that these drugs are being used to treat the patient's a. anemia. b. hypertension. c. hyperkalemia. d. mineral and bone disorder.
24. b. Nifedipine (Procardia) is a calcium channel blocker and furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic. Both are used to treat hypertension.
24. With which diagnosis will the patient benefit from being taught to do self-catheterization? a. Renal trauma c. Renal artery stenosis b. Urethral stricture d. Accelerated nephrosclerosis
24. b. The patient with urethral stricture will benefit from being taught to dilate the urethra by self-catheterization every few days. Renal trauma is treated related to the severity of the injury with bed rest, fluids, and analgesia. Renal artery stenosis includes control of hypertension with possible surgical revascularization. Accelerated nephrosclerosis is associated with malignant hypertension that must be aggressively treated as well as monitoring kidney function.
25. Which drugs will be used to treat the patient with CKD for mineral and bone disorder (select all that apply)? a. Cinacalcet (Sensipar) b. Sevelamer (Renagel) c. IV glucose and insulin d. Calcium acetate (PhosLo) e. IV 10% calcium gluconate
25. a, b, d. Cinacalcet (Sensipar), a calcimimetic agent to control secondary hyperparathyroidism; sevelamer (Renagel), a noncalcium phosphate binder; and calcium acetate (PhosLo), a calcium-based phosphate binder are used to treat mineral and bone disorder in CKD. IV glucose and insulin and IV 10% calcium gluconate along with sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) are used to treat the hyperkalemia of CKD.
25. In providing care for the patient with adult-onset polycystic kidney disease, what should the nurse do? a. Help the patient to cope with the rapid progression of the disease b. Suggest genetic counseling resources for the children of the patient c. Expect the patient to have polyuria and poor concentration ability of the kidneys d. Implement measures for the patient's deafness and blindness in addition to the renal problems
25. b. Adult-onset polycystic kidney disease is an inherited autosomal dominant disorder that often manifests after the patient has children but the children should receive genetic counseling regarding their life choices. The disease progresses slowly, eventually causing progressive renal failure. Hereditary medullary cystic disease causes poor concentration ability of the kidneys and classic Alport syndrome is a hereditary nephritis that is associated with deafness and deformities of the optic lens.
25. Priority Decision: Following a renal biopsy, what is the nurse's priority? a. Offer warm sitz baths to relieve discomfort. b. Test urine for microscopic bleeding with a dipstick. c. Expect the patient to experience burning on urination. d. Monitor the patient for symptoms of a urinary infection.
25. b. Bleeding from the kidney following a biopsy is the most serious complication of the procedure and urine must be examined for both gross and microscopic blood, in addition to vital signs and hematocrit levels being monitored. Following a cystoscopy the patient may have burning with urination and warm sitz baths may be used. Urinary infections are a complication of any procedure requiring instrumentation of the bladder.
26. What nursing responsibilities are done to obtain a clean-catch urine specimen from a patient (select all that apply)? a. Use sterile container. d. Have the patient void, stop, and void in container. b. Must start the test with full bladder. e. Have the patient clean the meatus before voiding. c. Insert catheter immediately after voiding.
26. a, d, e. A clean-catch urine specimen is obtained in a sterile container after cleaning the meatus. The patient will void a small amount in the toilet, stop, and then void in the container to catch the urine midstream. The first morning specimen is best for a urinalysis. A full bladder is necessary for a urine flow study. A urinary catheter is inserted immediately after voiding to assess residual urine.
26. What accurately describes the care of the patient with CKD? a. A nutrient that is commonly supplemented for the patient on dialysis because it is dialyzable is iron. b. The syndrome that includes all of the signs and symptoms seen in the various body systems in CKD is azotemia. c. The use of morphine is contraindicated in the patient with CKD because accumulation of its metabolites may cause seizures. d. The use of calcium-based phosphate binders in the patient with CKD is contraindicated when serum calcium levels are increased.
26. d. In the patient with CKD, when serum calcium levels are increased, calcium-based phosphate binders are not used. The nutrient supplemented for patients on dialysis is folic acid. The various body system manifestations occur with uremia, which includes azotemia. Meperidine is contraindicated in patients with CKD related to possible seizures.
26. Which disease causes connective tissue changes that cause glomerulonephritis? a. Gout c. Diabetes mellitus b. Amyloidosis d. Systemic lupus erythematosus
26. d. Systemic lupus erythematosus causes connective tissue damage that affects the glomerulus. Gout deposits uric acid crystals in the kidney. Amyloidosis deposits hyaline bodies in the kidney. Diabetes mellitus causes microvascular damage affecting the kidney.
27. When obtaining a nursing history from a patient with cancer of the urinary system, what does the nurse recognize as a risk factor associated with both kidney cancer and bladder cancer? a. Smoking c. Chronic use of phenacetin b. Family history of cancer d. Chronic, recurrent nephrolithiasis
27. a. Both cancer of the kidney and cancer of the bladder are associated with smoking. A family history of renal cancer is a risk factor for kidney cancer and cancer of the bladder has been associated with the use of phenacetin-containing analgesics and recurrent upper UTIs.
27. Which diagnostic study would include assessing for iodine sensitivity, teaching the patient to take a cathartic the night before the procedure, and telling the patient that a salty taste may occur during the procedure? a. Cystometrogram c. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) b. Renal arteriogram d. Kidneys, ureters, bladder (KUB)
27. c. A cathartic the evening before the procedure and sensitivity to iodine are important for both intravenous pyelogram (IVP) and renal arteriogram but the salty taste is only a possibility with IVP. The cystometrogram involves filling the bladder with water or saline to measure tone and stability. The kidneys, ureters, and bladder (KUB) is an x-ray that may have bowel preparation.
27. During the nursing assessment of the patient with renal insufficiency, the nurse asks the patient specifically about a history of a. angina. b. asthma. c. hypertension. d. rheumatoid arthritis.
27. c. The most common causes of CKD in the United States are diabetes mellitus and hypertension. The nurse should obtain information on long-term health problems that are related to kidney disease. The other disorders are not closely associated with renal disease.
28. The patient with chronic kidney disease is considering whether to use peritoneal dialysis (PD) or hemodialysis (HD). What are advantages of PD when compared to HD (select all that apply)? a. Less protein loss b. Rapid fluid removal c. Less cardiovascular stress d. Decreased hyperlipidemia e. Requires fewer dietary restrictions
28. c, e. Peritoneal dialysis is less stressful for the cardiovascular system and requires fewer dietary restrictions. Peritoneal dialysis actually contributes to more protein loss and increased hyperlipidemia. The fluid and creatinine removal are slower with peritoneal dialysis than hemodialysis.
28. Thirty percent of patients with kidney cancer have metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Why does this occur? a. The only treatment modalities for the disease are palliative. b. Diagnostic tests are not available to detect tumors before they metastasize. c. Classic symptoms of hematuria and palpable mass do not occur until the disease is advanced. d. Early metastasis to the brain impairs the patient's ability to recognize the seriousness of symptoms.
28. c. There are no early characteristic symptoms of cancer of the kidney and gross hematuria, flank pain, and a palpable mass do not occur until the disease is advanced. The treatment of choice is a partial or radical nephrectomy, which can be successful in early disease. Many kidney cancers are diagnosed as incidental imaging findings. Targeted therapy is the preferred treatment for metastatic kidney cancer. Radiation is palliative. The most common sites of metastases are the lungs, liver, and long bones.
29. What does the dialysate for PD routinely contain? a. Calcium in a lower concentration than in the blood b. Sodium in a higher concentration than in the blood c. Dextrose in a higher concentration than in the blood d. Electrolytes in an equal concentration to that of the blood
29. c. Dextrose or icodextrin or amino acid is added to dialysate fluid to create an osmotic gradient across the membrane to remove excess fluid from the blood. The dialysate fluid has no potassium so that potassium will diffuse into the dialysate from the blood. Dialysate also usually contains higher calcium to promote its movement into the blood. Dialysate sodium is usually less than or equal to that of blood to prevent sodium and fluid retention.
29. Which characteristics are associated with urge incontinence (select all that apply)? a. Treated with Kegel exercises b. Found following prostatectomy c. Common in postmenopausal women d. Involuntary urination preceded by urgency e. Caused by overactivity of the detrusor muscle f. Bladder contracts by reflex, overriding central inhibition
29. d, e, f. Urge incontinence is involuntary urination preceded by urgency caused by overactivity of the detrusor muscle when the bladder contracts by reflex, which overrides central inhibition. Treatment includes treating the underlying cause and retraining the bladder with urge suppression, anticholinergic drugs, or containment devices. The other options are characteristic of stress incontinence. Patients may have a combination of urge and stress incontinence.
3. Which important functions of regulation of water balance and acid-base balance occur in the distal convoluted tubes of the nephron (select all that apply)? a. Secretion of H+ into filtrate b. Reabsorption of water without ADH c. Reabsorption of Na+ in exchange for K+ d. Reabsorption of glucose and amino acids e. Reabsorption of water under ADH influence f. Reabsorption of Ca+2 under parathormone influence
3. a, c, e, f. The distal tubules regulate water and acid- base balance by reabsorption of water under antidiuretic hormone (ADH) influence, secreting H+ and reabsorbing bicarbonate, reabsorption of Na+ in exchange for K+, and reabsorption of Ca+2 with the influence of parathormone. The reabsorption of water without ADH occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule and the descending loop of Henle. The reabsorption of glucose and amino acids occurs in the proximal convoluted tubule. Active reabsorption of Cl- and passive reabsorption of Na+ occurs in the ascending loop of Henle.
3. e immunologic mechanisms involved in acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis include a. tubular blocking by precipitates of bacteria and antibody reactions. b. deposition of immune complexes and complement along the GBM. c. thickening of the GBM from autoimmune microangiopathic changes. d. destruction of glomeruli by proteolytic enzymes contained in the GBM.
3. b,
3. A woman with no history of UTIs who is experiencing urgency, frequency, and dysuria comes to the clinic, where a dipstick and microscopic urinalysis indicate bacteriuria. What should the nurse anticipate for this patient? a. Obtaining a clean-catch midstream urine specimen for culture and sensitivity b. No treatment with medication unless she develops fever, chills, and flank pain c. Empirical treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX, Bactrim) for 3 days d. Need to have a blood specimen drawn for a complete blood count (CBC) and kidney function tests
3. c. Unless a patient has a history of recurrent UTIs or a complicated UTI, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP- SMX) or nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin) is usually used to empirically treat an initial UTI without a culture and sensitivity or other testing. Asymptomatic bacteriuria does not justify treatment but symptomatic UTIs should always be treated.
3. e nurse identi es a risk for urinary calculi in a patient who relates a past health history that includes a. hyperaldosteronism. b. serotonin de ciency. c. adrenal insu ciency. d. hyperparathyroidism.
3. d
3. Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is the most common cause of intrarenal AKI. Which patient is most likely to develop ATN? a. Patient with diabetes mellitus b. Patient with hypertensive crisis c. Patient who tried to overdose on acetaminophen d. Patient with major surgery who required a blood transfusion
3. d. Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) is primarily the result of ischemia, nephrotoxins, or sepsis. Major surgery is most likely to cause severe kidney ischemia in the patient requiring a blood transfusion. A blood transfusion hemolytic reaction produces nephrotoxic injury if it occurs. Diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and acetaminophen overdose will not contribute to ATN.
30. The patient has a thoracic spinal cord lesion and incontinence that occurs equally during the day and night. What type of incontinence is this patient experiencing? a. Reflex incontinence c. Functional incontinence b. Overflow incontinence d. Incontinence after trauma
30. a. Reflex incontinence occurs with no warning, equally during the day and night, and with spinal cord lesions above S2. Overflow incontinence is when the pressure of urine in the overfull bladder overcomes sphincter control and is caused by bladder or urethral outlet obstruction. Functional incontinence is loss of urine resulting from cognitive, functional, or environmental factors. Incontinence after trauma or surgery occurs when fistulas have occurred or after a prostatectomy.
31. In which type of dialysis does the patient dialyze during sleep and leave the fluid in the abdomen during the day? a. Long nocturnal hemodialysis b. Automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) c. Continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) d. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)
31. b. Automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) is the type of dialysis in which the patient dialyzes during sleep and leaves the fluid in the abdomen during the day. Long nocturnal hemodialysis occurs while the patient is sleeping and is done up to six times per week. Continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) is a type of continuous renal replacement therapy used to treat AKI. Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is dialysis that is done with exchanges of 1.5 to 3 L of dialysate at least four times daily.
31. Which drugs are used to treat overflow incontinence (select all that apply)? a. Baclofen (Lioresal) d. 5α-reductase inhibitors b. Anticholinergic drugs e. Bethanechol (Urecholine) c. α-Adrenergic blockers
31. c, d, e. α-Adrenergic blockers block the stimulation of the smooth muscle of the bladder, 5α-reductase inhibitors decrease outlet resistance, and bethanechol enhances bladder contractions. Baclofen or diazepam is used to relax the external sphincter for reflex incontinence. Anticholinergics are used to relax bladder tone and increase sphincter tone with urge incontinence.
32. To prevent the most common serious complication of PD, what is important for the nurse to do? a. Infuse the dialysate slowly. b. Use strict aseptic technique in the dialysis procedures. c. Have the patient empty the bowel before the inflow phase. d. Reposition the patient frequently and promote deep breathing.
32. b. Peritonitis is a common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) and may require catheter removal and termination of dialysis. Infection occurs from contamination of the dialysate or tubing or from progression of exit-site or tunnel infections and strict sterile technique must be used by health professionals as well as the patient to prevent contamination. Too-rapid infusion may cause shoulder pain and pain may be caused if the catheter tip touches the bowel. Difficulty breathing, atelectasis, and pneumonia may occur from pressure of the fluid on the diaphragm, which may be prevented by elevating the head of the bed and promoting repositioning and deep breathing.
32. To assist the patient with stress incontinence, what is the best thing the nurse should teach the patient to do? a. Void every 2 hours to prevent leakage. b. Use absorptive perineal pads to contain urine. c. Perform pelvic floor muscle exercises 40 to 50 times per day. d. Increase intraabdominal pressure during voiding to empty the bladder completely.
32. c. Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) increase the tone of the urethral sphincters and should be done in sets of 10 or more contractions four to five times a day (total of 40 to 50 per day). Frequent bladder emptying is recommended for patients with urge incontinence and an increase in pressure on the bladder is recommended for patients with overflow incontinence. Absorptive perineal pads should be only a temporary measure because long- term use discourages continence and can lead to skin problems.
33. A patient on hemodialysis develops a thrombus of a subcutaneous arteriovenous (AV) graft, requiring its removal. While waiting for a replacement graft or fistula, the patient is most likely to have what done for treatment? a. Peritoneal dialysis b. Peripheral vascular access using radial artery c. Silastic catheter tunneled subcutaneously to the jugular vein d. Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line inserted into subclavian vein
33. c. A more permanent, soft, flexible Silastic double-lumen catheter is used for long-term access when other forms of vascular access have failed. These catheters are tunneled subcutaneously and have Dacron cuffs that prevent infection from tracking along the catheter.
33. What is included in nursing care that applies to the management of all urinary catheters in hospitalized patients? a. Measuring urine output every 1 to 2 hours to ensure patency b. Turning the patient frequently from side to side to promote drainage c. Using strict sterile technique during irrigation and obtaining culture specimens d. Daily cleaning of the catheter insertion site with soap and water and application of lotion
33. c. All urinary catheters in hospitalized patients pose a very high risk for infection, especially antibiotic-resistant, health care-associated infections, and scrupulous aseptic technique is essential in the insertion and maintenance of all catheters. Routine irrigations are not performed. Turning the patient to promote drainage is recommended only for suprapubic catheters. Cleaning the insertion site with soap and water should be performed for urethral and suprapubic catheters but lotion or powder should be avoided and site care for other catheters may require special interventions.
34. A man with end-stage kidney disease is scheduled for hemodialysis following healing of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF). What should the nurse explain to him that will occur during dialysis? a. He will be able to visit, read, sleep, or watch TV while reclining in a chair. b. He will be placed on a cardiac monitor to detect any adverse effects that might occur. c. The dialyzer will remove and hold part of his blood for 20 to 30 minutes to remove the waste products. d. A large catheter with two lumens will be inserted into the fistula to send blood to and return it from the dialyzer.
34. a. While patients are undergoing hemodialysis, they can perform quiet activities that do not require the limb that has the vascular access. Blood pressure is monitored frequently and the dialyzer monitors dialysis function but cardiac monitoring is not usually indicated. The hemodialysis machine continuously circulates both the blood and the dialysate past the semipermeable membrane in the machine. Graft and fistula access involve the insertion of two needles into the site: one to remove blood from and the other to return blood to the dialyzer.
34. A patient has a right ureteral catheter placed following a lithotripsy for a stone in the ureter. In caring for the patient after the procedure, what is an appropriate nursing action? a. Milk or strip the catheter every 2 hours. b. Measure ureteral urinary drainage every 1 to 2 hours. c. Irrigate the catheter with 30-mL sterile saline every 4 hours. d. Encourage ambulation to promote urinary peristaltic action.
34. b. Output from ureteral catheters must be monitored every 1 to 2 hours because an obstruction will cause overdistention of the renal pelvis and renal damage. The renal pelvis has a capacity of only 3 to 5 mL and if irrigation is ordered, no more than 5 mL of sterile saline is used. The patient with a ureteral catheter is usually kept on bed rest until specific orders for ambulation are given. Suprapubic tubes may be milked to prevent obstruction of the catheter by sediment and clots.
35. During assessment of the patient who has a nephrectomy, what should the nurse expect to find? a. Shallow, slow respirations b. Clear breath sounds in all lung fields c. Decreased breath sounds in the lower left lobe d. Decreased breath sounds in the right and left lower lobes
35. b. A nephrectomy incision is usually in the flank, just below the diaphragm or in the abdominal area. Although the patient is reluctant to breathe deeply because of incisional pain, the lungs should be clear. Decreased sounds and shallow respirations are abnormal and would require intervention.
35. What is the primary way that a nurse will evaluate the patency of an AVF? a. Palpate for pulses distal to the graft site. b. Auscultate for the presence of a bruit at the site. c. Evaluate the color and temperature of the extremity. d. Assess for the presence of numbness and tingling distal to the site.
35. b. A patent arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creates turbulent blood flow that can be assessed by listening for a bruit or palpated for a thrill as the blood passes through the graft. Assessment of neurovascular status in the extremity distal to the graft site is important to determine that the graft does not impair circulation to the extremity but the neurovascular status does not indicate whether the graft is open.
36. Which urinary diversion is a continent diversion created by formation of an ileal pouch with a stoma for catheterization? a. Kock pouch c. Orthotopic neobladder b. Ileal conduit d. Cutaneous ureterostomy
36. a. The Kock pouch is a continent diversion created by formation of an ileal pouch with an external stoma requiring catheterization. Ileal conduit is the most common incontinent diversion using a stoma of resected ileum with implanted ureters. Orthotopic neobladder is a new bladder from a reshaped segment of intestine in the anatomic position of the bladder with urine discharged through the urethra. A cutaneous ureterostomy diverts the ureter from the bladder to the abdominal skin but there is frequent scarring and strictures of the ureters, so ileal conduits are used more often.
36. A patient with AKI is a candidate for continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). What is the most common indication for use of CRRT? a. Azotemia b. Pericarditis c. Fluid overload d. Hyperkalemia
36. c. Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is indicated for the patient with AKI as an alternative or adjunct to hemodialysis to slowly remove solutes and fluid in the hemodynamically unstable patient. It is especially useful for treatment of fluid overload, but hemodialysis is indicated for treatment of hyperkalemia, pericarditis, or other serious effects of uremia.
37. A patient rapidly progressing toward end-stage kidney disease asks about the possibility of a kidney transplant. In responding to the patient, the nurse knows that what is a contraindication to kidney transplantation? a. Hepatitis C infection b. Coronary artery disease c. Refractory hypertension d. Extensive vascular disease
37. d. Extensive vascular disease is a contraindication for renal transplantation, primarily because adequate blood supply is essential for the health of the new kidney. Other contraindications include disseminated malignancies, refractory or untreated cardiac disease, chronic respiratory failure, chronic infection, or unresolved psychosocial disorders. Coronary artery disease (CAD) may be treated with bypass surgery before transplantation and transplantation can relieve hypertension. Hepatitis B or C infection is not a contraindication.
37. A patient with bladder cancer undergoes cystectomy with formation of an ileal conduit. During the patient's first postoperative day, what should the nurse plan to do? a. Measure and fit the stoma for a permanent appliance. b. Encourage high oral intake to flush mucus from the conduit. c. Teach the patient to self-catheterize the stoma every 4 to 6 hours. d. Empty the drainage bag every 2 to 3 hours and measure the urinary output.
37. d. Urine drains continuously from an ileal conduit and the drainage bag must be emptied every 2 to 3 hours and measured to ensure adequate urinary output. Fitting for a permanent appliance is not done until the stoma shrinks to its normal size in a few weeks. With an ileal conduit, mucus is present in the urine because it is secreted by the ileal segment as a result of the irritating effect of the urine but the surgery causes paralytic ileus and the patient will be NPO for several days postoperatively. Self-catheterization is performed when patients have formation of a continent Kock pouch.
38. Priority Decision: During the immediate postoperative care of a recipient of a kidney transplant, what should the nurse expect to do? a. Regulate fluid intake hourly based on urine output. b. Monitor urine-tinged drainage on abdominal dressing. c. Medicate the patient frequently for incisional flank pain. d. Remove the urinary catheter to evaluate the ureteral implant.
38. a. Fluid and electrolyte balance is critical in the transplant recipient patient, especially because diuresis often begins soon after surgery. Fluid replacement is adjusted hourly based on kidney function and urine output. Urine-tinged drainage on the abdominal dressing may indicate leakage from the ureter implanted into the bladder and the health care provider should be notified. The donor patient may have a flank or laparoscopic incision(s) where the kidney was removed. The recipient has an abdominal incision where the kidney was placed in the iliac fossa. The urinary catheter is usually used for 2 to 3 days to monitor urine output and kidney function.
38. A teaching plan developed by the nurse for the patient with a new ileal conduit includes instructions to do what? a. Clean the skin around the stoma with alcohol every day. b. Use a wick to keep the skin dry during appliance changes. c. Use sterile supplies and technique during care of the stoma. d. Change the appliance every day and wash it with soap and warm water.
38. b. Because the stoma continuously drains urine, a wick formed of a rolled-up 4 × 4 gauze or a tampon is held against the stoma to absorb the urine while the skin is cleaned and a new appliance is attached. The skin is cleaned with warm water only because soap and other agents cause drying and irritation and clean, not sterile, technique is used. The appliance should be left in place for as long as possible before it loosens and allows leakage onto the skin, perhaps up to 14 days.
39. A patient received a kidney transplant last month. Because of the effects of immunosuppressive drugs and CKD, what complication of transplantation should the nurse be assessing the patient for to decrease the risk of mortality? a. Infection b. Rejection c. Malignancy d. Cardiovascular disease
39. a. Infection is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality after transplantation because the surgery, the immunosuppressive drugs, and the effects of CKD all suppress the body's normal defense mechanisms, thus increasing the risk of infection. The nurse must assess the patient as well as use aseptic technique to prevent infections. Rejection may occur but for other reasons. Malignancy occurrence increases later due to immunosuppressive therapy. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death after renal transplantation but this would not be expected to cause death within the first month after transplantation.
39. Delegation Decision: Which nursing interventions could be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) (select all that apply)? a. Assess the need for catheterization. b. Use bladder scanner to estimate residual urine. c. Teach patient pelvic floor muscle (Kegel) exercises. d. Insert indwelling catheter for uncomplicated patient. e. Assist incontinent patient to commode at regular intervals. f. Provide perineal care with soap and water around a urinary catheter.
39. e, f. The unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) may assist the incontinent patient to void at regular intervals and provide perineal care. An RN should perform the assessments and teaching. In long-term care and rehabilitation facilities, UAP may use bladder scanners after they are trained.
4. One of the nurse's most important roles in relation to acute post- streptococcal glomerulonephritis is to a. promote early diagnosis and treatment of sore throats and skin lesions. b. encourage patients to obtain antibiotic therapy for upper respi- ratory tract infections. c. teach patients with APSGN that long-term prophylactic anti- biotic therapy is necessary to prevent recurrence. d. monitor patients for respiratory symptoms that indicate the disease is affecting the alveolar basement membrane.
4. a,
4. The right atrium myocytes secrete atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) when there is increased plasma volume. What actions does ANP take to produce a large volume of dilute urine (select all that apply)? a. Inhibits renin d. Decreases sodium excretion b. Increases ADH e. Increases aldosterone secretion c. Inhibits angiotensin II action
4. a, c. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) responds to increased atrial distention by increasing sodium excretion and inhibiting renin, ADH, and angiotensin action. Aldosterone secretion is also suppressed. ANP also causes afferent arteriole relaxation that increases the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
4. Priority Decision: A dehydrated patient is in the Injury stage of the RIFLE staging of AKI. What would the nurse first anticipate in the treatment of this patient? a. Assess daily weight b. IV administration of fluid and furosemide (Lasix) c. IV administration of insulin and sodium bicarbonate d. Urinalysis to check for sediment, osmolality, sodium, and specific gravity
4. b. Injury is the stage of RIFLE classification when urine output is less than 0.5 mL/kg/hr for 12 hours, the serum creatinine is increased times two or the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is decreased by 50%. This stage may be reversible by treating the cause or, in this patient, the dehydration by administering IV fluid and a low dose of a loop diuretic, furosemide (Lasix). Assessing the daily weight will be done to monitor fluid changes but it is not the first treatment the nurse should anticipate. IV administration of insulin and sodium bicarbonate would be used for hyperkalemia. Checking the urinalysis will help to determine if the AKI has a prerenal, intrarenal, or postrenal cause by what is seen in the urine but with this patient's dehydration, it is thought to be prerenal to begin treatment.
4. A female patient with a UTI has a nursing diagnosis of risk for infection related to lack of knowledge regarding prevention of recurrence. What should the nurse include in the teaching plan instructions for this patient? a. Empty the bladder at least 4 times a day. b. Drink at least 2 quarts of water every day. c. Wait to urinate until the urge is very intense. d. Clean the urinary meatus with an antiinfective agent after voiding.
4. b. The bladder should be emptied at least every 3 to 4 hours. Fluid intake should be increased to about 2000 mL/ day without caffeine, alcohol, citrus juices, and chocolate drinks, because they are potential bladder irritants. Cleaning the urinary meatus with an antiinfective agent after voiding will irritate the meatus but the perineal area should be wiped from front to back after urination and defecation to prevent fecal contamination of the meatus.
4. Diminished ability to concentrate urine, associated with aging of the urinary system, is attributed to a. a decrease in bladder sensory receptors. b. a decrease in the number of functioning nephrons. c. decreased function of the loop of Henle and tubules. d. thickening of the basement membrane of Bowman's capsule.
4. c
5. During physical assessment of the urinary system, the nurse a. palpates an empty bladder as a small nodule. b. auscultates over each CVA to detect impaired renal blood ow. c. nds a dull percussion sound when 100 mL of urine is present in the bladder. d. palpates above the symphysis pubis to determine the level of urine in the bladder.
5. b,
5. What is the most common cause of acute pyelonephritis resulting from an ascending infection from the lower urinary tract? a. The kidney is scarred and fibrotic. b. The organism is resistant to antibiotics. c. There is a preexisting abnormality of the urinary tract. d. The patient does not take all of the antibiotics for treatment of a UTI.
5. c. Ascending infections from the bladder to the kidney are prevented by the normal anatomy and physiology of the urinary tract unless a preexisting condition, such as vesicoureteral reflux or lower urinary tract dysfunction (bladder tumors, prostatic hyperplasia, strictures, or stones), is present. Resistance to antibiotics and failure to take a full prescription of antibiotics for a UTI usually result in relapse or reinfection of the lower urinary tract.
5. Which statement accurately describes glomerular filtration rate (GFR)? a. The primary function of GFR is to excrete nitrogenous waste products. b. Decreased permeability in the glomerulus causes loss of proteins into the urine. c. The GFR is primarily dependent on adequate blood flow and adequate hydrostatic pressure. d. The GFR is decreased when prostaglandins cause vasodilation and increased renal blood flow.
5. c. GFR is primarily dependent on adequate blood flow and hydrostatic pressure. The glomerulus filters the blood. The GFR is the amount of blood filtered each minute by the glomeruli, which determines the concentration of urea in the blood. Increased permeability in the glomerulus causes loss of proteins in the urine. The prostaglandins increase the GFR with increased renal blood flow.
5. The edema that occurs in nephrotic syndrome is due to a. increased hydrostatic pressure caused by sodium retention. b. decreased aldosterone secretion from adrenal insufficiency. c. increased fluid retention caused by decreased glomerular filtration. d. decreased colloidal osmotic pressure caused by loss of serum albumin.
5. d,
5. What indicates to the nurse that a patient with oliguria has prerenal oliguria? a. Urine testing reveals a low specific gravity. b. Causative factor is malignant hypertension. c. Urine testing reveals a high sodium concentration. d. Reversal of oliguria occurs with fluid replacement.
5. d. In prerenal oliguria, the oliguria is caused by a decrease in circulating blood volume and there is no damage yet to the renal tissue. It can be reversed by correcting the precipitating factor, such as fluid replacement for hypovolemia. Prerenal oliguria is characterized by urine with a high specific gravity and a low sodium concentration, whereas oliguria of intrarenal failure is characterized by urine with a low specific gravity and a high sodium concentration. Malignant hypertension causes damage to renal tissue and intrarenal oliguria.
6. A patient is admitted to the hospital with severe renal colic. The nurse's first priority in management of the patient is to a. administer opioids as prescribed. b. obtain supplies for straining all urine. c. encourage uid intake of 3 to 4 L/day. d. keep the patient NPO in preparation for surgery.
6. a,
6. Normal ndings expected by the nurse on physical assessment of the urinary system include (select all that apply) a. nonpalpable le kidney. b. auscultation of renal artery bruit. c. CVA tenderness elicited by a kidney punch. d. no CVA tenderness elicited by a kidney punch. e. palpable bladder to the level of the pubic symphysis.
6. a, d,
6. A patient with an obstruction of the renal artery causing renal ischemia exhibits hypertension. What is one factor that may contribute to the hypertension? a. Increased renin release c. Decreased aldosterone secretion b. Increased ADH secretion d. Increased synthesis and release of prostaglandins
6. a. Renin is released in response to decreased arterial blood pressure (BP), renal ischemia, decreased extracellular fluid (ECF), decreased serum Na+ concentration, and increased urinary Na+ concentration. It is the catalyst of the renin- angiotensin-aldosterone system, which raises BP when stimulated. ADH is secreted by the posterior pituitary in response to serum hyperosmolality and low blood volume. Aldosterone is secreted only after stimulation by angiotensin II. Kidney prostaglandins lower BP by causing vasodilation.
6. Which characteristic is more likely with acute pyelonephritis than with a lower UTI? a. Fever b. Dysuria c. Urgency d. Frequency
6. a. Systemic manifestations of fever and chills with leukocytosis and nausea and vomiting are more common in pyelonephritis than in a lower UTI. Dysuria, frequency, and urgency can be present with both.
6. In a patient with AKI, which laboratory urinalysis result indicates tubular damage? a. Hematuria b. Specific gravity fixed at 1.010 c. Urine sodium of 12 mEq/L (12 mmol/L) d. Osmolality of 1000 mOsm/kg (1000 mmol/kg)
6. b. A urine specific gravity that is consistently 1.010 and a urine osmolality of about 300 mOsm/kg is the same specific gravity and osmolality as plasma. This indicates that tubules are damaged and unable to concentrate urine. Hematuria is more common with postrenal damage. Tubular damage is associated with a high sodium concentration (greater than 40 mEq/L).
7. In which clinical situation would the increased release of erythropoietin be expected? a. Hypoxemia c. Hyperkalemia b. Hypotension d. Fluid overload
7. a. Erythropoietin is released when the oxygen tension of the renal blood supply is low and stimulates production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Hypotension causes activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, as well as release of ADH. Hyperkalemia stimulates the release of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex and fluid overload does not directly stimulate factors affecting the erythropoietin release by the kidney.
7. Metabolic acidosis occurs in the oliguric phase of AKI as a result of impairment of a. ammonia synthesis. b. excretion of sodium. c. excretion of bicarbonate. d. conservation of potassium.
7. a. Metabolic acidosis occurs in AKI because the kidneys cannot synthesize ammonia or excrete acid products of metabolism, resulting in an increased acid load. Sodium is lost in urine because the kidneys cannot conserve sodium. Impaired excretion of potassium results in hyperkalemia. Bicarbonate is normally generated and reabsorbed by the functioning kidney to maintain acid- base balance.
7. A diagnostic study that indicates renal blood ow, glomerular ltra- tion, tubular function, and excretion is a(n) a. IVP. b. VCUG. c. renal scan. d. loopogram.
7. c
7. the nurse recommends genetic counseling for the children of a patient with a. nephrotic syndrome. b. chronic pyelonephritis. c. malignant nephrosclerosis. d. adult-onset polycystic kidney disease.
7. d,
7. Which test is required for a diagnosis of pyelonephritis? a. Renal biopsy b. Blood culture c. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) d. Urine for culture and sensitivity
7. d. A urine specimen specifically obtained for culture and sensitivity is required to diagnose pyelonephritis because it will show pyuria, the specific bacteriuria, and what drug the bacteria is sensitive to for treatment. The renal biopsy is used to diagnose chronic pyelonephritis or cancer. Blood cultures would be done if bacteremia is suspected. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) would increase renal irritation, but CT urograms may be used to assess for signs of infection in the kidney and complications of pyelonephritis.
8. What are common diagnostic studies done for a patient with severe renal colic (select all that apply)? a. CT scan d. Ureteroscopy b. Urinalysis e. Abdominal ultrasound c. Cystoscopy
8. a, b, e. Testing would include urinalysis to see crystals and look for red blood cells. Abdominal ultrasound and CT scan may also be done.
8. the nurse identi es a risk factor for kidney and bladder cancer in a patient who relates a history of a. aspirin use. b. tobacco use. c. chronic alcohol abuse. d. use of artificial sweeteners.
8. b,
8. On reading the urinalysis results of a dehydrated patient, the nurse would expect to nd a.apHof8.4. b. RBCs of 4/hpf. c. color: yellow, cloudy. d. speci c gravity of 1.035.
8. d
8. What indicates to the nurse that a patient with AKI is in the recovery phase? a. A return to normal weight b. A urine output of 3700 mL/day c. Decreasing sodium and potassium levels d. Decreasing blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels
8. d. The blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels remain high during the oliguric and diuretic phases of AKI. The recovery phase begins when the glomerular filtration returns to a rate at which BUN and creatinine stabilize and then decrease. Urinary output of 3 to 5 L/ day, decreasing sodium and potassium levels, and fluid weight loss are characteristic of the diuretic phase of AKI.
8. A patient with suprapubic pain and symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency has two negative urine cultures. What is one assessment finding that would indicate interstitial cystitis? a. Residual urine greater than 200 mL b. A large, atonic bladder on urodynamic testing c. A voiding pattern that indicates psychogenic urinary retention d. Pain with bladder filling that is transiently relieved by urination
8. d. The symptoms of interstitial cystitis (IC) imitate those of an infection of the bladder but the urine is free of infectious agents. Unlike a bladder infection, the pain with IC increases as urine collects in the bladder and is temporarily relieved by urination. Acidic urine is very irritating to the bladder in IC and the bladder is small but urinary retention is not common.
9. In planning nursing interventions to increase bladder control in the patient with urinary incontinence, the nurse includes a. teaching the patient to use Kegel exercises. b. clamping and releasing a catheter to increase bladder tone. c. teaching the patient biofeedback mechanisms to suppress the urge to void. d. counseling the patient concerning choice of incontinence containment device.
9. a,
9. Which volume of urine in the bladder would cause discomfort and require urinary catheterization? a. 250 mL c. 1200 mL b. 500 mL d. 1500 mL
9. b. When the amount of urine in the bladder has reached 1200 mL, the person would need relief and probably catheterization. The bladder capacity ranges from 600 to 12. 1000 mL. When there is 250 mL of urine in the bladder, the person will usually feel the urge to urinate and 400 to 600 mL will be uncomfortable.
9. When caring for the patient with interstitial cystitis, what can the nurse teach the patient to do? a. Avoid foods that make the urine more alkaline. b. Use high-potency vitamin therapy to decrease the autoimmune effects of the disorder. c. Always keep a voiding diary to document pain, voiding frequency, and patterns of nocturia. d. Use the dietary supplement calcium glycerophosphate (Prelief) to decrease bladder irritation.
9. d. Calcium glycerophosphate (Prelief) alkalinizes the urine and can help to relieve the irritation from acidic foods. A diet low in acidic foods is recommended and if a multivitamin is used, high-potency vitamins should be avoided because these products may irritate the bladder. A voiding diary is useful in diagnosis but does not need to be kept indefinitely.
9. While caring for the patient in the oliguric phase of AKI, the nurse monitors the patient for associated collaborative problems. When should the nurse notify the health care provider? a. Urine output is 300 mL/day. b. Edema occurs in the feet, legs, and sacral area. c. Cardiac monitor reveals a depressed T wave and elevated ST segment. d. The patient experiences increasing muscle weakness and abdominal cramping.
9. d. Hyperkalemia is a potentially life-threatening complication of AKI in the oliguric phase. Muscle weakness and abdominal cramping are signs of the neuromuscular impairment that occurs with hyperkalemia. In addition, hyperkalemia can cause the cardiac conduction abnormalities of peaked T wave, prolonged PR interval, prolonged QRS interval, and depressed ST segment. Urine output of 300 mL/day is expected during the oliguric phase, as is the development of peripheral edema.
15. The nurse is caring for a patient after a right kidney biopsy. Which position would be the most appropriate for this patient immediately after the procedure? A Right lateral side-lying position B Reverse Trendelenburg position C Supine with lower extremities elevated D High Fowler's position with arms supported
A After a renal biopsy, a pressure dressing should be applied. The patient should be kept on the affected side for 30 to 60 minutes to apply additional pressure from the patient's own body weight and then on bed rest for 24 hours. High Fowler's position with arms supported is a position for a patient in respiratory distress. Reverse Trendelenburg position is used to maintain circulation to the legs in peripheral artery insufficiency. Supine with legs elevated puts excessive pressure on the diaphragm and should generally be avoided.
13. A patient was admitted 2 weeks ago after multiple traumatic injuries in a motor vehicle collision. The patient now has a serum creatinine at 3.9 mg/dL and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 100 mg/dL. Which medication, if ordered by the health care provider, should the nurse question? A Gentamicin B Nitrofurantoin C Acetaminophen D Morphine sulfate
A Elevated serum creatinine and BUN indicate renal insufficiency or acute kidney injury. Medications (e.g., prescribed, over-the-counter, and herbs) should be evaluated for nephrotoxic potential. Many drugs are known to be nephrotoxic (see Table 44-3); gentamicin is a potential nephrotoxic agent.
4. The nurse counsels a 64-yr-old man on dietary restrictions to prevent recurrent uric acid renal calculi. Which foods should the patient avoid? A Venison, crab, and liver B Spinach, cabbage, and tea C Milk, yogurt, and dried fruit D Asparagus, lentils, and chocolate
A Foods high in purines (e.g., venison, crab, liver) should be avoided to prevent uric acid calculi formation. Foods high in calcium (e.g., milk, yogurt, dried fruit, lentils, chocolate) should be avoided to prevent calcium calculi formation. Foods high in oxalate (e.g., spinach, cabbage, tea, asparagus, chocolate) should be avoided to prevent oxalate calculi formation (see Table 45-12).
9. A patient underwent a surgical procedure has a urinary catheter. Eight hours after catheter removal and drinking fluids, the patient has not been able to void. What is the nurse's first action to assess for urinary retention? A Bladder scan B Cystometrogram C Residual urine test D Kidneys, ureters, bladder (KUB) x-ray
A If the patient is unable to void, the bladder may be palpated for distention or percussed for dullness if it is full, or a bladder scan may be done to determine the approximate amount of urine in the bladder. A cystometrogram visualizes the bladder and evaluates vesicoureteral reflux. A KUB x-ray delineates size, shape, and positions of kidneys and possibly a full bladder. Neither of these would be useful in this situation. A residual urine test requires urination before catheterizing the patient to determine the amount of urine left in the bladder, so this assessment would not be helpful for this patient.
1. The nurse is preparing a patient for an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). What is a priority action by the nurse? A Administer a cathartic or enema. B Assess patient for allergies to penicillin. C Keep the patient NPO for 4 hours preprocedure. D Advise the patient that a metallic taste may occur during procedure.
A Nursing responsibilities in caring for a patient undergoing an IVP include administration of a cathartic or enema to empty the colon of feces and gas. The nurse will also assess the patient for iodine sensitivity; keep the patient NPO for 8 hours before the procedure; and advise the patient that warmth, a flushed face, and a salty taste during injection of contrast material may occur.
11. Eight months after the delivery of her first child, a 31-yr-old woman sought care for occasional incontinence when sneezing or laughing. Which measure should the nurse recommend first? A Kegel exercises B Use of adult incontinence pads C Intermittent self-catheterization D Dietary changes including fluid restriction
A Patients who experience stress incontinence frequently benefit from Kegel exercises (pelvic floor muscle exercises). The use of incontinence pads does not resolve the problem, and intermittent self-catheterization would be a premature recommendation. Dietary changes are not likely to influence the patient's urinary continence.
4. A patient with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections has been scheduled for a cystoscopy. What teaching point should the nurse emphasize before the procedure? A "You might have pink-tinged urine and burning after your cystoscopy." B "You'll need to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight the day before the test." C "The morning of the test, you will drink some water that contains a contrast solution." D "You'll require a urinary catheter inserted before the cystoscopy, and it will be in place for a few days."
A Pink-tinged urine, burning, and frequency are common after a cystoscopy. The patient does not need to be NPO before the test, and contrast media is not needed. A cystoscopy does not always necessitate catheterization before or after the procedure.
18. What is the nurse's priority when changing the appliance for a patient with an ileal conduit? A Keep the skin free of urine. B Inspect the peristomal area. C Cleanse and dry the area gently. D Affix the appliance to the faceplate.
A The nurse's priority is to keep the skin free of urine because the peristomal skin is at high risk for damage from the urine if it is alkaline. The peristomal area will be assessed; the area will be gently cleaned and dried, and the appliance will be affixed to the faceplate if one is being used, but these are not as much of a priority as keeping the skin free of urine to prevent skin damage.
12. A patient with suspected renal insufficiency is scheduled for a creatinine clearance diagnostic test. Which instructions would be appropriate for the nurse to provide to the patient? A "Empty your bladder and discard the urine; then save all urine for 24 hours." B "Your blood creatinine level will be tested after you eat a high-protein meal." C "This test should not be performed if you have allergies to iodine or shellfish." D "A sterile container must be used to store the urine during the collection period.
A The patient should discard the first urination when this test is started. Urine should be saved from all subsequent urinations for 24 hours. Creatinine clearance testing does not involve the injection of contrast dye. A serum creatinine is determined during the 24-hour period and used in the calculation to determine creatinine clearance. Consumption of a high-protein meal is not indicated. Sterile containers would be indicated if cultures are performed to determine the presence of microorganisms.
2. A 21-yr-old female patient came to the clinic for instruction to prevent recurrence of urinary tract infections. Which patient statement indicates that teaching was effective? A "I will urinate before and after having intercourse." B "I will use vinegar as a vaginal douche every week." C "I should drink three 8-oz glasses of water daily." D "I can stop the antibiotics when symptoms disappear."
A The woman should empty her bladder before and after sexual intercourse. She should avoid vaginal douches and maintain adequate oral fluid intake (15 mL per pound of body weight). All of the antibiotics should be taken as prescribed even if symptoms are no longer present.
12. A patient with type 2 diabetes is reporting a second urinary tract infections(UTI)within the past month. Which medication should the nurse expect to be ordered for the recurrent infection? A Ciprofloxacin B Fosfomycin C Nitrofurantoin D Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole
A This UTI is a complicated UTI because the patient has type 2 diabetes, and the UTI is recurrent. Ciprofloxacin would be used for a complicated UTI. Fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin , and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole should be used for uncomplicated UTIs.
10. Which nursing diagnosis is priority when caring for a patient with renal calculi? A Acute pain B Risk for constipation C Deficient fluid volume D Risk for powerlessness
A Urinary stones are associated with severe abdominal or flank pain. Whereas deficient fluid volume is unlikely to result from urinary stones, constipation is more likely to be an indirect consequence rather than a primary clinical manifestation of the problem. The presence of pain supersedes powerlessness as an immediate focus of nursing care.
16. In addition to urine function, the nurse recognizes that the kidneys perform numerous other functions important to the maintenance of homeostasis. Which physiologic processes are performed by the kidneys (select all that apply.)? A Production of renin B Activation of vitamin D C Carbohydrate metabolism D Erythropoietin production E Hemolysis of old red blood cells (RBCs)
A B D In addition to urine formation, the kidneys release renin to maintain blood pressure, activate vitamin D to maintain calcium levels, and produce erythropoietin to stimulate RBC production. Carbohydrate metabolism and hemolysis of old RBCs are not physiologic functions that are performed by the kidneys.
19. The urinalysis of a patient reveals a high microorganism count. What data should the nurse use to determine which part of the urinary tract is infected (select all that apply.)? A Pain location B Fever and chills C Mental confusion D Urinary hesitancy E Urethral discharge F Postvoid dribbling
A E Although all the manifestations are evident with urinary tract infections (UTIs), pain location is useful in differentiating among pyelonephritis, cystitis, and urethritis because flank pain is characteristic of pyelonephritis, but dysuria is characteristic of cystitis and urethritis. Urethral discharge is indicative of urethritis, not pyelonephritis or cystitis. Fever and chills and mental confusion are nonspecific indicators of UTIs. Urinary hesitancy and postvoid dribbling may occur with a UTI but may also occur with prostate enlargement in the male patient.
2. Which is the most appropriate therapy for the nurse to suggest for a patient with chronic low back pain from osteoarthritis? a. Acupuncture b. Aromatherapy c. St. John's wort d. Magnetic therapy
ANS: A Acupuncture may be useful in the treatment of chronic low back pain from osteoarthritis. The other therapies are not used to treat pain.
31. Which nursing action is of highest priority for a 68-year-old patient with renal calculi who is being admitted to the hospital with gross hematuria and severe colicky left flank pain? a. Administer prescribed analgesics. b. Monitor temperature every 4 hours. c. Encourage increased oral fluid intake. d. Give antiemetics as needed for nausea.
ANS: A Although all of the nursing actions may be used for patients with renal lithiasis, the patient's presentation indicates that management of pain is the highest priority action. If the patient has urinary obstruction, increasing oral fluids may increase the symptoms. There is no evidence of infection or nausea.
43. A patient is admitted to the emergency department with possible renal trauma after an automobile accident. Which prescribed intervention will the nurse implement first? a. Check blood pressure and heart rate. b. Administer morphine sulfate 4 mg IV. c. Transport to radiology for an intravenous pyelogram. d. Insert a urethral catheter and obtain a urine specimen
ANS: A Because the kidney is very vascular, the initial action with renal trauma will be assessment for bleeding and shock. The other actions are also important once the patient's cardiovascular status has been determined and stabilized
19. A female patient being admitted with pneumonia has a history of neurogenic bladder as a result of a spinal cord injury. Which action will the nurse plan to take first? a. Ask about the usual urinary pattern and any measures used for bladder control. b. Assist the patient to the toilet at scheduled times to help ensure bladder emptying. c. Check the patient for urinary incontinence every 2 hours to maintain skin integrity. d. Use intermittent catheterization on a regular schedule to avoid the risk of infection.
ANS: A Before planning any interventions, the nurse should complete the assessment and determine the patient's normal bladder pattern and the usual measures used by the patient at home. All the other responses may be appropriate, but until the assessment is complete, an individualized plan for the patient cannot be developed.
32. The nurse is caring for a patient who has had an ileal conduit for several years. Which nursing action could be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? a. Change the ostomy appliance. b. Choose the appropriate ostomy bag. c. Monitor the appearance of the stoma. d. Assess for possible urinary tract infection (UTI).
ANS: A Changing the ostomy appliance for a stable patient could be done by UAP. Assessments of the site, choosing the appropriate ostomy bag, and assessing for (UTI) symptoms require more education and scope of practice and should be done by the registered nurse (RN).
5. The nurse teaches a patient about Healing Touch. Which statement by the nurse is the most appropriate? a. "This therapy will realign your energy flow." b. "I will start by manipulating your muscles and soft tissues." c. "Pressure will be applied to body points where energy is obstructed." d. "The treatment consists of passively moving joints through full range of motion."
ANS: A Healing Touch involves the use of the practitioner's hands to realign the patient's energy flow. The other options describe other complementary and alternative therapies (CATs) such as massage, chiropractic therapy, and acupressure.
14. A patient has elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine levels. Which bowel preparation order would the nurse question for this patient who is scheduled for a renal arteriogram? a. Fleet enema b. Tap-water enema c. Senna/docusate (Senokot-S) d. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) tablets
ANS: A High-phosphate enemas, such as Fleet enemas, should be avoided in patients with elevated BUN and creatinine because phosphate cannot be excreted by patients with renal failure. The other medications for bowel evacuation are more appropriate.
9. The nurse performs a preoperative assessment on a patient before surgery. Which finding would require immediate follow-up by the nurse? a. The patient uses several herbal remedies routinely. b. The patient recently visited a chiropractor for back pain. c. The patient has used acupressure to relieve postoperative nausea in the past. d. The patient expresses a wish to use acupuncture for postoperative pain control.
ANS: A Many herbs prolong bleeding time, so further assessment of the types of herbs that are used and how recently they were used is needed before the patient has surgery. The other information given by the patient also requires further assessment, but will not affect the timing of the patient's surgery.
1. Which action by a new staff nurse indicates that further teaching about complementary and alternative therapy may be needed? a. The nurse massages the legs of a patient who has a left foot stasis ulcer. b. The nurse checks a blood glucose on a patient with diabetes who takes aloe. c. The nurse suggests the use of acupressure to a patient with tension headaches. d. The nurse shows a family how to use hand massage to calm an agitated patient.
ANS: A Massage should not be done for a patient with open wounds. The other actions by the new nurse are appropriate.
40. A patient in the urology clinic is diagnosed with monilial urethritis. Which action will the nurse include in the plan of care? a. Teach the patient about the use of antifungal medications. b. Tell the patient to avoid tub baths until the symptoms resolve. c. Instruct the patient to refer recent sexual partners for treatment. d. Teach the patient to avoid nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
ANS: A Monilial urethritis is caused by a fungus and antifungal medications such as nystatin (Mycostatin) or fluconazole (Diflucan) are usually used as treatment. Because monilial urethritis is not sexually transmitted, there is no need to refer sexual partners. Warm baths and NSAIDS may be used to treat symptoms.
16. The nurse is caring for a 68-year-old hospitalized patient with a decreased glomerular filtration rate who is scheduled for an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). Which action will be included in the plan of care? a. Monitor the urine output after the procedure. b. Assist with monitored anesthesia care (MAC). c. Give oral contrast solution before the procedure. d. Insert a large size urinary catheter before the IVP.
ANS: A Patients with impaired renal function are at risk for decreased renal function after IVP because the contrast medium used is nephrotoxic, so the nurse should monitor the patient's urine output. MAC sedation and retention catheterization are not required for the procedure. The contrast medium is given IV, not orally.
34. A 44-year-old patient is unable to void after having an open loop resection and fulguration of the bladder. Which nursing action should be implemented first? a. Assist the patient to soak in a 15-minute sitz bath. b. Insert a straight urethral catheter and drain the bladder. c. Encourage the patient to drink several glasses of water. d. Teach the patient how to do isometric perineal exercises.
ANS: A Sitz baths will relax the perineal muscles and promote voiding. Although the patient should be encouraged to drink fluids and Kegel exercises are helpful in the prevention of incontinence, these activities would not be helpful for a patient experiencing retention. Catheter insertion increases the risk for urinary tract infection (UTI) and should be avoided when possible
9. What glomerular filtration rate (GFR) would the nurse estimate for a 30-year-old patient with a creatinine clearance result of 60 mL/min? a. 60 mL/min b. 90 mL/min c. 120 mL/min d. 180 mL/min
ANS: A The creatinine clearance approximates the GFR. The other responses are not accurate.
5. Which medication taken at home by a 47-year-old patient with decreased renal function will be of most concern to the nurse? a. ibuprofen (Motrin) b. warfarin (Coumadin) c. folic acid (vitamin B9) d. penicillin (Bicillin LA)
ANS: A The nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are nephrotoxic and should be avoided in patients with impaired renal function. The nurse also should ask about reasons the patient is taking the other medications, but the medication of most concern is the ibuprofen.
44. After change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first? a. Patient with a urethral stricture who has not voided for 12 hours b. Patient who has cloudy urine after orthotopic bladder reconstruction c. Patient with polycystic kidney disease whose blood pressure is 186/98 mm Hg d. Patient who voided bright red urine immediately after returning from lithotripsy
ANS: A The patient information suggests acute urinary retention, a medical emergency. The nurse will need to assess the patient and consider whether to insert a retention catheter. The other patients will also be assessed, but their findings are consistent with their diagnoses and do not require immediate assessment or possible intervention.
30. A 76-year-old with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is agitated and confused, with a markedly distended bladder. Which intervention prescribed by the health care provider should the nurse implement first? a. Insert a urinary retention catheter. b. Schedule an intravenous pyelogram (IVP). c. Draw blood for a serum creatinine level. d. Administer lorazepam (Ativan) 0.5 mg PO.
ANS: A The patient's history and clinical manifestations are consistent with acute urinary retention, and the priority action is to relieve the retention by catheterization. The BUN and creatinine measurements can be obtained after the catheter is inserted. The patient's agitation may resolve once the bladder distention is corrected, and sedative drugs should be used cautiously in older patients. The IVP is an appropriate test but does not need to be done urgently.
3. Which complementary and alternative therapy should the nurse suggest to a patient who has elevated triglyceride levels? a. Fish oil b. Milk thistle c. Saw palmetto d. Ginkgo biloba
ANS: A There is scientific evidence that fish oil is helpful in treating hypertriglyceridemia. The other therapies will not be helpful to lower the triglyceride levels in this patient.
1. A patient who uses multiple herbal products is scheduled for knee replacement surgery. Which herbal products should the nurse instruct the patient to discontinue at least 2 to 3 weeks before surgery (select all that apply)? a. Garlic b. Ginger c. Feverfew d. Echinacea e. Ginkgo biloba
ANS: A, B, C, E Feverfew, ginger, garlic, and ginkgo biloba all prolong bleeding time and should be discontinued 2 to 3 weeks before surgery. Echinacea is usually safe to continue, but if the patient has an upper respiratory tract infection, he or she probably should not have surger
3. Which information will the nurse include when teaching the patient with a urinary tract infection (UTI) about the use of phenazopyridine (Pyridium)? a. Pyridium may cause photosensitivity b. Pyridium may change the urine color. c. Take the Pyridium for at least 7 days. d. Take Pyridium before sexual intercourse.
ANS: B Patients should be taught that Pyridium will color the urine deep orange. Urinary analgesics should only be needed for a few days until the prescribed antibiotics decrease the bacterial count. Pyridium does not cause photosensitivity. Taking Pyridium before intercourse will not be helpful in reducing the risk for UTI.
6. A patient undergoing chemotherapy complains of nausea and asks the nurse whether there are any complementary and alternative therapies that may help. Which therapy should the nurse recommend to the patient? a. Green tea b. Acupuncture c. Black cohosh d. Chiropractic therapy
ANS: B Acupuncture may be helpful in decreasing chemotherapy-induced nausea. The other therapies are not used to treat nausea.
6. It is most important that the nurse ask a patient admitted with acute glomerulonephritis about a. history of kidney stones. b. recent sore throat and fever. c. history of high blood pressure. d. frequency of bladder infections.
ANS: B Acute glomerulonephritis frequently occurs after a streptococcal infection such as strep throat. It is not caused by kidney stones, hypertension, or urinary tract infection (UTI).
36. A 58-year-old male patient who weighs 242 lb (110 kg) undergoes a nephrectomy for massive kidney trauma due to a motor vehicle crash. Which postoperative assessment finding is most important to communicate to the surgeon? a. Blood pressure is 102/58. b. Urine output is 20 mL/hr for 2 hours. c. Incisional pain level is reported as 9/10. d. Crackles are heard at bilateral lung bases.
ANS: B Because the urine output should be at least 0.5 mL/kg/hr, a 40 mL output for 2 hours indicates that the patient may have decreased renal perfusion because of bleeding, inadequate fluid intake, or obstruction at the suture site. The blood pressure requires ongoing monitoring but does not indicate inadequate perfusion at this time. The patient should cough and deep breathe, but the crackles do not indicate a need for an immediate change in therapy. The incisional pain should be addressed, but this is not as potentially life threatening as decreased renal perfusion. In addition, the nurse can medicate the patient for pain.
8. How will the nurse assess for flank tenderness in a 30-year-old female patient with suspected pyelonephritis? a. Palpate along both sides of the lumbar vertebral column. b. Strike a flat hand covering the costovertebral angle (CVA). c. Push fingers upward into the two lowest intercostal spaces. d. Percuss between the iliac crest and ribs along the midaxillary line.
ANS: B Checking for flank pain is best performed by percussion of the CVA and asking about pain. The other techniques would not assess for flank pain.
15. The nurse will plan to teach a 27-year-old female who smokes 2 packs of cigarettes daily about the increased risk for a. kidney stones. b. bladder cancer. c. bladder infection. d. interstitial cystitis.
ANS: B Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for bladder cancer. The patient's risk for developing interstitial cystitis, urinary tract infection (UTI), or kidney stones will not be reduced by quitting smoking.
7. A patient who develops frequent upper respiratory infections (URIs) asks the nurse whether any herbal therapies might help. Which herbal supplement should the nurse recommend? a. Ginger b. Echinacea c. Ginkgo biloba d. St. John's wort
ANS: B Echinacea may have some benefit in reducing the incidence and duration of the common cold. Ginkgo biloba, ginger, and St. John's wort are useful for other conditions, but these therapies would not be helpful for this patient.
39. A 22-year-old female patient seen in the clinic for a bladder infection describes the following symptoms. Which information is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider? a. Urinary urgency b. Left-sided flank pain c. Intermittent hematuria d. Burning with urination
ANS: B Flank pain indicates that the patient may have developed pyelonephritis as a complication of the bladder infection. The other clinical manifestations are consistent with a lower urinary tract infection (UTI).
12. When planning teaching for a 59-year-old male patient with benign nephrosclerosis the nurse should include instructions regarding a. preventing bleeding with anticoagulants. b. monitoring and recording blood pressure. c. obtaining and documenting daily weights. d. measuring daily intake and output volumes.
ANS: B Hypertension is the major symptom of nephrosclerosis. Measurements of intake and output and daily weights are not necessary unless the patient develops renal insufficiency. Anticoagulants are not used to treat nephrosclerosis.
11. A patient gives the nurse health information before a scheduled intravenous pyelogram (IVP). Which item has the most immediate implications for the patient's care? a. The patient has not had food or drink for 8 hours. b. The patient lists allergies to shellfish and penicillin. c. The patient complains of costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness. d. The patient used a bisacodyl (Dulcolax) tablet the previous night.
ANS: B Iodine-based contrast dye is used during IVP and for many computed tomography (CT) scans. The nurse will need to notify the health care provider before the procedures so that the patient can receive medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroids before the procedures are started. The other information is also important to note and document but does not have immediate implications for the patient's care during the procedures.
10. To prevent recurrence of uric acid renal calculi, the nurse teaches the patient to avoid eating a. milk and cheese. b. sardines and liver. c. legumes and dried fruit. d. spinach, chocolate, and tea.
ANS: B Organ meats and fish such as sardines increase purine levels and uric acid. Spinach, chocolate, and tomatoes should be avoided in patients who have oxalate stones. Milk, dairy products, legumes, and dried fruits may increase the incidence of calcium-containing stones.
13. The nurse caring for a patient after cystoscopy plans that the patient a. learns to request narcotics for pain. b. understands to expect blood-tinged urine. c. restricts activity to bed rest for a 4 to 6 hours. d. remains NPO for 8 hours to prevent vomiting.
ANS: B Pink-tinged urine and urinary frequency are expected after cystoscopy. Burning on urination is common, but pain that requires opioids for relief is not expected. A good fluid intake is encouraged after this procedure. Bed rest is not required following cystoscopy.
7. The nurse completing a physical assessment for a newly admitted male patient is unable to feel either kidney on palpation. Which action should the nurse take next? a. Obtain a urine specimen to check for hematuria. b. Document the information on the assessment form. c. Ask the patient about any history of recent sore throat. d. Ask the health care provider about scheduling a renal ultrasound.
ANS: B The kidneys are protected by the abdominal organs, ribs, and muscles of the back, and may not be palpable under normal circumstances, so no action except to document the assessment information is needed. Asking about a recent sore throat, checking for hematuria, or obtaining a renal ultrasound may be appropriate when assessing for renal problems for some patients, but there is nothing in the question stem to indicate that they are appropriate for this patient.
28. Which assessment finding for a patient who has just been admitted with acute pyelonephritis is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider? a. Complaint of flank pain b. Blood pressure 90/48 mm Hg c. Cloudy and foul-smelling urine d. Temperature 100.1° F (57.8° C)
ANS: B The low blood pressure indicates that urosepsis and septic shock may be occurring and should be immediately reported. The other findings are typical of pyelonephritis.
29. A 58-year-old male patient who is diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome has ascites and 4+ leg edema. Which nursing diagnosis is a priority for the patient? a. Activity intolerance related to rapidly increased weight b. Excess fluid volume related to low serum protein levels c. Disturbed body image related to peripheral edema and ascites d. Altered nutrition: less than required related to protein restriction
ANS: B The patient has massive edema, so the priority problem at this time is the excess fluid volume. The other nursing diagnoses are also appropriate, but the focus of nursing care should be resolution of the edema and ascites.
9. A 56-year-old female patient is admitted to the hospital with new onset nephrotic syndrome. Which assessment data will the nurse expect? a. Poor skin turgor b. Recent weight gain c. Elevated urine ketones d. Decreased blood pressure
ANS: B The patient with a nephrotic syndrome will have weight gain associated with edema. Hypertension is a clinical manifestation of nephrotic syndrome. Skin turgor is normal because of the edema. Urine protein is high.
6. A 79-year-old man has been admitted with benign prostatic hyperplasia. What is most appropriate to include in the nursing plan of care? a. Limit fluid intake to no more than 1000 mL/day. b. Leave a light on in the bathroom during the night. c. Ask the patient to use a urinal so that urine can be measured. d. Pad the patient's bed to accommodate overflow incontinence.
ANS: B The patient's age and diagnosis indicate a likelihood of nocturia, so leaving the light on in the bathroom is appropriate. Fluids should be encouraged because dehydration is more common in older patients. The information in the question does not indicate that measurement of the patient's output is necessary or that the patient has overflow incontinence.
14. A 34-year-old male patient seen at the primary care clinic complains of feeling continued fullness after voiding and a split, spraying urine stream. The nurse will ask about a history of a. recent kidney trauma. b. gonococcal urethritis. c. recurrent bladder infection. d. benign prostatic hyperplasia.
ANS: B The patient's clinical manifestations are consistent with urethral strictures, a possible complication of gonococcal urethritis. These symptoms are not consistent with benign prostatic hyperplasia, kidney trauma, or bladder infection.
23. A patient who had surgery for creation of an ileal conduit 3 days ago will not look at the stoma and requests that only the ostomy nurse specialist does the stoma care. The nurse identifies a nursing diagnosis of a. anxiety related to effects of procedure on lifestyle. b. disturbed body image related to change in function. c. readiness for enhanced coping related to need for information. d. self-care deficit, toileting, related to denial of altered body function.
ANS: B The patient's unwillingness to look at the stoma or participate in care indicates that disturbed body image is the best diagnosis. No data suggest that the impact on lifestyle is a concern for the patient. The patient does not appear to be ready for enhanced coping. The patient's insistence that only the ostomy nurse care for the stoma indicates that denial is not present.
10. The nurse assessing the urinary system of a 45-year-old female would use auscultation to a. determine kidney position. b. identify renal artery bruits. c. check for ureteral peristalsis. d. assess for bladder distention.
ANS: B The presence of a bruit may indicate problems such as renal artery tortuosity or abdominal aortic aneurysm. Auscultation would not be helpful in assessing for the other listed urinary tract information.
41. Which action will the nurse anticipate taking for an otherwise healthy 50-year-old who has just been diagnosed with Stage 1 renal cell carcinoma? a. Prepare patient for a renal biopsy. b. Provide preoperative teaching about nephrectomy. c. Teach the patient about chemotherapy medications. d. Schedule for a follow-up appointment in 3 months.
ANS: B The treatment of choice in patients with localized renal tumors who have no co-morbid conditions is partial or total nephrectomy. A renal biopsy will not be needed in a patient who has already been diagnosed with renal cancer. Chemotherapy is used for metastatic renal cancer. Because renal cell cancer frequently metastasizes, treatment will be started as soon as possible after the diagnosis.
15. A female patient with a suspected urinary tract infection (UTI) is to provide a clean-catch urine specimen for culture and sensitivity testing. To obtain the specimen, the nurse will a. have the patient empty the bladder completely, then obtain the next urine specimen that the patient is able to void. b. teach the patient to clean the urethral area, void a small amount into the toilet, and then void into a sterile specimen cup. c. insert a short sterile "mini" catheter attached to a collecting container into the urethra and bladder to obtain the specimen. d. clean the area around the meatus with a povidone-iodine (Betadine) swab, and then have the patient void into a sterile container.
ANS: B This answer describes the technique for obtaining a clean-catch specimen. The answer beginning, "insert a short, small, 'mini' catheter attached to a collecting container" describes a technique that would result in a sterile specimen, but a health care provider's order for a catheterized specimen would be required. Using Betadine before obtaining the specimen is not necessary, and might result in suppressing the growth of some bacteria. The technique described in the answer beginning "have the patient empty the bladder completely" would not result in a sterile specimen.
2. Which nursing actions can the registered nurse (RN) delegate to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)? (select all that apply)? a. Ask a newly admitted patient about home use of herbal medications. b. Administer prescribed naproxen (Naprosyn) to a patient with osteoarthritis. c. Provide a gentle back rub to a patient who is having difficulty falling asleep. d. Teach a patient with heart disease about the benefits of fish oil supplements. e. Evaluate whether home use of aloe has affected a patient's electrolyte levels.
ANS: B,C LPN/LVN education and scope of practice includes administration of medications and therapies such as massage. Assessment, patient teaching, and evaluation of the effects of medications require more education and should be done by the RN.
1. A patient has been diagnosed with urinary tract calculi that are high in uric acid. Which foods will the nurse teach the patient to avoid (select all that apply)? a. Milk b. Liver c. Spinach d. Chicken e. Cabbage f. Chocolate
ANS: B,D Meats contain purines, which are metabolized to uric acid. The other foods might be restricted in patients who have calcium or oxalate stones.
18. A male patient in the clinic provides a urine sample that is red-orange in color. Which action should the nurse take first? a. Notify the patient's health care provider. b. Teach correct midstream urine collection. c. Ask the patient about current medications. d. Question the patient about urinary tract infection (UTI) risk factors.
ANS: C A red-orange color in the urine is normal with some over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as phenazopyridine (Pyridium). The color would not be expected with urinary tract infection, is not a sign that poor technique was used in obtaining the specimen, and does not need to be communicated to the health care provider until further assessment is done.
18. Following rectal surgery, a patient voids about 50 mL of urine every 30 to 60 minutes for the first 4 hours. Which nursing action is most appropriate? a. Monitor the patient's intake and output over night. b. Have the patient drink small amounts of fluid frequently. c. Use an ultrasound scanner to check the postvoiding residual volume. d. Reassure the patient that this is normal after rectal surgery because of anesthesia.
ANS: C An ultrasound scanner can be used to check for residual urine after the patient voids. Because the patient's history and clinical manifestations are consistent with overflow incontinence, it is not appropriate to have the patient drink small amounts. Although overflow incontinence is not unusual after surgery, the nurse should intervene to correct the physiologic problem, not just reassure the patient. The patient may develop reflux into the renal pelvis and discomfort from a full bladder if the nurse waits to address the problem for several hours.
13. A 28-year-old male patient is diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease. Which information is most appropriate for the nurse to include in teaching at this time? a. Complications of renal transplantation b. Methods for treating severe chronic pain c. Discussion of options for genetic counseling d. Differences between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis
ANS: C Because a 28-year-old patient may be considering having children, the nurse should include information about genetic counseling when teaching the patient. The well-managed patient will not need to choose between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis or know about the effects of transplantation for many years. There is no indication that the patient has chronic pain.
26. Nursing staff on a hospital unit are reviewing rates of hospital-acquired infections (HAI) of the urinary tract. Which nursing action will be most helpful in decreasing the risk for HAI in patients admitted to the hospital? a. Encouraging adequate oral fluid intake b. Testing urine with a dipstick daily for nitrites c. Avoiding unnecessary urinary catheterizations d. Providing frequent perineal hygiene to patients
ANS: C Because catheterization bypasses many of the protective mechanisms that prevent urinary tract infection (UTI), avoidance of catheterization is the most effective means of reducing HAI. The other actions will also be helpful, but are not as useful as decreasing urinary catheter use.
3. A hospitalized patient with possible renal insufficiency after coronary artery bypass surgery is scheduled for a creatinine clearance test. Which equipment will the nurse need to obtain? a. Urinary catheter b. Cleaning towelettes c. Large container for urine d. Sterile urine specimen cup
ANS: C Because creatinine clearance testing involves a 24-hour urine specimen, the nurse should obtain a large container for the urine collection. Catheterization, cleaning of the perineum with antiseptic towelettes, and a sterile specimen cup are not needed for this test.
1. A 46-year-old female patient returns to the clinic with recurrent dysuria after being treated with trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) for 3 days. Which action will the nurse plan to take? a. Teach the patient to take the prescribed Bactrim for 3 more days. b. Remind the patient about the need to drink 1000 mL of fluids daily. c. Obtain a midstream urine specimen for culture and sensitivity testing. d. Suggest that the patient use acetaminophen (Tylenol) to treat the symptoms.
ANS: C Because uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) are usually successfully treated with 3 days of antibiotic therapy, this patient will need a urine culture and sensitivity to determine appropriate antibiotic therapy. Acetaminophen would not be as effective as other over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as phenazopyridine (Pyridium) in treating dysuria. The fluid intake should be increased to at least 1800 mL/day. Because the UTI has persisted after treatment with Bactrim, the patient is likely to need a different antibiotic.
24. Which information from a patient who had a transurethral resection with fulguration for bladder cancer 3 days ago is most important to report to the health care provider? a. The patient is voiding every 4 hours. b. The patient is using opioids for pain. c. The patient has seen clots in the urine. d. The patient is anxious about the cancer.
ANS: C Clots in the urine are not expected and require further follow-up. Voiding every 4 hours, use of opioids for pain, and anxiety are typical after this procedure.
42. Which information about a patient with Goodpasture syndrome requires the most rapid action by the nurse? a. Blood urea nitrogen level is 70 mg/dL. b. Urine output over the last 2 hours is 30 mL. c. Audible crackles bilaterally over the posterior chest to the midscapular level. d. Elevated level of antiglomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) antibodies.
ANS: C Crackles heard to a high level indicate a need for rapid actions such as assessment of oxygen saturation, reporting the findings to the health care provider, initiating oxygen therapy, and dialysis. The other findings will also be reported, but are typical of Goodpasture syndrome and do not require immediate nursing action.
8. The nurse will anticipate teaching a patient with nephrotic syndrome who develops flank pain about treatment with a. antibiotics. b. antifungals. c. anticoagulants. d. antihypertensives.
ANS: C Flank pain in a patient with nephrotic syndrome suggests a renal vein thrombosis, and anticoagulation is needed. Antibiotics are used to treat a patient with flank pain caused by pyelonephritis. Fungal pyelonephritis is uncommon and is treated with antifungals. Antihypertensives are used if the patient has high blood pressure.
5. The nurse determines that further instruction is needed for a patient with interstitial cystitis when the patient says which of the following? a. "I should stop having coffee and orange juice for breakfast." b. "I will buy calcium glycerophosphate (Prelief) at the pharmacy." c. "I will start taking high potency multiple vitamins every morning." d. "I should call the doctor about increased bladder pain or odorous urine."
ANS: C High-potency multiple vitamins may irritate the bladder and increase symptoms. The other patient statements indicate good understanding of the teaching.
12. A patient passing bloody urine is scheduled for a cystoscopy with cystogram. Which description of the procedure by the nurse is accurate? a. "Your doctor will place a catheter into an artery in your groin and inject a dye that will visualize the blood supply to the kidneys." b. "Your doctor will insert a lighted tube into the bladder, and little catheters will be inserted through the tube into your kidney." c. "Your doctor will insert a lighted tube into the bladder through your urethra, inspect the bladder, and instill a dye that will outline your bladder on x-ray." d. "Your doctor will inject a radioactive solution into a vein in your arm and the distribution of the isotope in your kidneys and bladder will be checked."
ANS: C In a cystoscope and cystogram procedure, a cystoscope is inserted into the bladder for direct visualization, and then contrast solution is injected through the scope so that x-rays can be taken. The response beginning, "Your doctor will place a catheter" describes a renal arteriogram procedure. The response beginning, "Your doctor will inject a radioactive solution" describes a nuclear scan. The response beginning, "Your doctor will insert a lighted tube into the bladder, and little catheters will be inserted" describes a retrograde pyelogram.
19. A patient admitted to the hospital with pneumonia has a history of functional urinary incontinence. Which nursing action will be included in the plan of care? a. Demonstrate the use of the Credé maneuver. b. Teach exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor. c. Place a bedside commode close to the patient's bed. d. Use an ultrasound scanner to check postvoiding residuals.
ANS: C Modifications in the environment make it easier to avoid functional incontinence. Checking for residual urine and performing the Credé maneuver are interventions for overflow incontinence. Kegel exercises are useful for stress incontinence.
2. When a patient's urine dipstick test indicates a small amount of protein, the nurse's next action should be to a. send a urine specimen to the laboratory to test for ketones. b. obtain a clean-catch urine for culture and sensitivity testing. c. inquire about which medications the patient is currently taking. d. ask the patient about any family history of chronic renal failure.
ANS: C Normally the urinalysis will show zero to trace amounts of protein, but some medications may give false-positive readings. The other actions by the nurse may be appropriate, but checking for medications that may affect the dipstick accuracy should be done first.
20. The home health nurse teaches a patient with a neurogenic bladder how to use intermittent catheterization for bladder emptying. Which patient statement indicates that the teaching has been effective? a. "I will buy seven new catheters weekly and use a new one every day." b. "I will use a sterile catheter and gloves for each time I self-catheterize." c. "I will clean the catheter carefully before and after each catheterization." d. "I will need to take prophylactic antibiotics to prevent any urinary tract infections."
ANS: C Patients who are at home can use a clean technique for intermittent self-catheterization and change the catheter every 7 days. There is no need to use a new catheter every day, to use sterile catheters, or to take prophylactic antibiotics.
37. A 63-year-old male patient had a cystectomy with an ileal conduit yesterday. Which new assessment data is most important for the nurse to communicate to the physician? a. Cloudy appearing urine b. Hypotonic bowel sounds c. Heart rate 102 beats/minute d. Continuous stoma drainage
ANS: C Tachycardia may indicate infection, hemorrhage, or hypovolemia, which are all serious complications of this surgery. The urine from an ileal conduit normally contains mucus and is cloudy. Hypotonic bowel sounds are expected after bowel surgery. Continuous drainage of urine from the stoma is normal.
22. A 68-year-old male patient who has bladder cancer had a cystectomy with creation of an Indiana pouch. Which topic will be included in patient teaching? a. Application of ostomy appliances b. Barrier products for skin protection c. Catheterization technique and schedule d. Analgesic use before emptying the pouch
ANS: C The Indiana pouch enables the patient to self-catheterize every 4 to 6 hours. There is no need for an ostomy device or barrier products. Catheterization of the pouch is not painful.
35. The nurse observes unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) taking the following actions when caring for a female patient with a urethral catheter. Which action requires that the nurse intervene? a. Taping the catheter to the skin on the patient's upper inner thigh b. Cleaning around the patient's urinary meatus with soap and water c. Disconnecting the catheter from the drainage tube to obtain a specimen d. Using an alcohol-based gel hand cleaner before performing catheter care
ANS: C The catheter should not be disconnected from the drainage tube because this increases the risk for urinary tract infection (UTI). The other actions are appropriate and do not require any intervention.
21. After a ureterolithotomy, a female patient has a left ureteral catheter and a urethral catheter in place. Which action will the nurse include in the plan of care? a. Provide teaching about home care for both catheters. b. Apply continuous steady tension to the ureteral catheter. c. Call the health care provider if the ureteral catheter output drops suddenly. d. Clamp the ureteral catheter off when output from the urethral catheter stops.
ANS: C The health care provider should be notified if the ureteral catheter output decreases because obstruction of this catheter may result in an increase in pressure in the renal pelvis. Tension on the ureteral catheter should be avoided in order to prevent catheter displacement. To avoid pressure in the renal pelvis, the catheter is not clamped. Because the patient is not usually discharged with a ureteral catheter in place, patient teaching about both catheters is not needed.
20. Which information from a patient's urinalysis requires that the nurse notify the health care provider? a. pH 6.2 b. Trace protein c. WBC 20 to 26/hpf d. Specific gravity 1.021
ANS: C The increased number of white blood cells (WBCs) indicates the presence of urinary tract infection or inflammation. The other findings are normal.
22. Which assessment of a 62-year-old patient who has just had an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) requires immediate action by the nurse? a. The heart rate is 58 beats/minute. b. The patient complains of a dry mouth. c. The respiratory rate is 38 breaths/minute. d. The urine output is 400 mL after 2 hours.
ANS: C The increased respiratory rate indicates that the patient may be experiencing an allergic reaction to the contrast medium used during the procedure. The nurse should immediately assess the patient's oxygen saturation and breath sounds. The other data are not unusual findings following an IVP.
38. A 32-year-old patient with a history of polycystic kidney disease is admitted to the surgical unit after having shoulder surgery. Which of the routine postoperative orders is most important for the nurse to discuss with the health care provider? a. Infuse 5% dextrose in normal saline at 75 mL/hr. b. Order regular diet after patient is awake and alert. c. Give ketorolac (Toradol) 10 mg PO PRN for pain. d. Draw blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine in 2 hours
ANS: C The nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be avoided in patients with decreased renal function because nephrotoxicity is a potential adverse effect. The other orders do not need any clarification or change.
25. When preparing a female patient with bladder cancer for intravesical chemotherapy, the nurse will teach about a. premedicating to prevent nausea. b. obtaining wigs and scarves to wear. c. emptying the bladder before the medication. d. maintaining oral care during the treatments.
ANS: C The patient will be asked to empty the bladder before instillation of the chemotherapy. Systemic side effects are not usually experienced with intravesical chemotherapy.
8. Which information should the nurse include when discussing the use of herbal remedies with a patient? a. Many herbs are toxic and carcinogenic and should not be used. b. Frequent medical evaluation is required when a person uses herbs. c. Herbs should be purchased only from manufacturers with a history of quality control. d. Herbs are no better than conventional drugs in maintaining health and may be less safe.
ANS: C The quality of herb preparations can vary, so it is important that patients purchase herbal remedies from reputable manufacturers. When appropriately used, herbs are generally safe and have fewer side effects than conventional medications.
11. The nurse teaches a 64-year-old woman to prevent the recurrence of renal calculi by a. using a filter to strain all urine. b. avoiding dietary sources of calcium. c. choosing diuretic fluids such as coffee. d. drinking 2000 to 3000 mL of fluid a day.
ANS: D A fluid intake of 2000 to 3000 mL daily is recommended to help flush out minerals before stones can form. Avoidance of calcium is not usually recommended for patients with renal calculi. Coffee tends to increase stone recurrence. There is no need for a patient to strain all urine routinely after a stone has passed, and this will not prevent stones.
17. Which nursing action is essential for a patient immediately after a renal biopsy? a. Check blood glucose to assess for hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. b. Insert a urinary catheter and test urine for gross or microscopic hematuria. c. Monitor the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine to assess renal function. d. Apply a pressure dressing and keep the patient on the affected side for 30 minutes.
ANS: D A pressure dressing is applied and the patient is kept on the affected side for 30 to 60 minutes to put pressure on the biopsy side and decrease the risk for bleeding. The blood glucose and BUN/creatinine will not be affected by the biopsy. Although monitoring for hematuria is needed, there is no need for catheterization.
7. Which finding for a patient admitted with glomerulonephritis indicates to the nurse that treatment has been effective? a. The patient denies pain with voiding. b. The urine dipstick is negative for nitrites. c. The antistreptolysin-O (ASO) titer is decreased. d. The periorbital and peripheral edema is resolved.
ANS: D Because edema is a common clinical manifestation of glomerulonephritis, resolution of the edema indicates that the prescribed therapies have been effective. Nitrites will be negative and the patient will not experience dysuria because the patient does not have a urinary tract infection. Antibodies to streptococcus will persist after a streptococcal infection.
33. Which assessment finding is most important to report to the health care provider regarding a patient who has had left-sided extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy? a. Blood in urine b. Left flank bruising c. Left flank discomfort d. Decreased urine output
ANS: D Because lithotripsy breaks the stone into small sand, which could cause obstruction, it is important to report a drop in urine output. Left flank pain, bruising, and hematuria are common after lithotripsy.
4. Which finding by the nurse will be most helpful in determining whether a 67-year-old patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia has an upper urinary tract infection (UTI)? a. Bladder distention b. Foul-smelling urine c. Suprapubic discomfort d. Costovertebral tenderness
ANS: D Costovertebral tenderness is characteristic of pyelonephritis. Bladder distention, foul-smelling urine, and suprapubic discomfort are characteristic of lower UTI and are likely to be present if the patient also has an upper UTI.
1. To assess whether there is any improvement in a patient's dysuria, which question will the nurse ask? a. "Do you have to urinate at night?" b. "Do you have blood in your urine?" c. "Do you have to urinate frequently?" d. "Do you have pain when you urinate?"
ANS: D Dysuria is painful urination. The alternate responses are used to assess other urinary tract symptoms: hematuria, nocturia, and frequency.
4. A 32-year-old patient who is employed as a hairdresser and has a 15 pack-year history of cigarette smoking is scheduled for an annual physical examination. The nurse will plan to teach the patient about the increased risk for a. renal failure. b. kidney stones. c. pyelonephritis. d. bladder cancer.
ANS: D Exposure to the chemicals involved with working as a hairdresser and in smoking both increase the risk of bladder cancer, and the nurse should assess whether the patient understands this risk. The patient is not at increased risk for renal failure, pyelonephritis, or kidney stones.
10. Which action is most appropriate for the nurse to take when a patient with a chronic wound voices the preference of taking herbs to boost immunity rather than prescribed antibiotics? a. Instruct the patient about the rationale for antibiotic use to treat infection. b. Remind the patient that the infection has not cleared with herbal treatment. c. Tell the patient that research shows that herbs are not effective in treating infection. d. Determine how the patient feels about using antibiotics in addition to herbal products.
ANS: D Further assessment of the patient's feelings about using conventional and natural therapies is needed before further action is taken. The patient may need instruction about antibiotics if further assessment indicates that the patient is receptive to antibiotic use. Pointing out that herbal therapy has not been successful is disrespectful to the patient's belief system. Although herbal therapy alone may not eradicate the infection, some herbal therapies do improve immune function.
16. A 68-year-old female patient admitted to the hospital with dehydration is confused and incontinent of urine. Which nursing action will be best to include in the plan of care? a. Restrict fluids between meals and after the evening meal. b. Apply absorbent incontinent pads liberally over the bed linens. c. Insert an indwelling catheter until the symptoms have resolved. d. Assist the patient to the bathroom every 2 hours during the day.
ANS: D In older or confused patients, incontinence may be avoided by using scheduled toileting times. Indwelling catheters increase the risk for urinary tract infection (UTI). Incontinent pads increase the risk for skin breakdown. Restricting fluids is not appropriate in a patient with dehydration.
17. A 55-year-old woman admitted for shoulder surgery asks the nurse for a perineal pad, stating that laughing or coughing causes leakage of urine. Which intervention is most appropriate to include in the care plan? a. Assist the patient to the bathroom q3hr. b. Place a commode at the patient's bedside. c. Demonstrate how to perform the Credé maneuver. d. Teach the patient how to perform Kegel exercises.
ANS: D Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles will help reduce stress incontinence. The Credé maneuver is used to help empty the bladder for patients with overflow incontinence. Placing the commode close to the bedside and assisting the patient to the bathroom are helpful for functional incontinence.
23. When working in the urology/nephrology clinic, which patient could the nurse delegate to an experienced licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)? a. Patient who is scheduled for a renal biopsy after a recent kidney transplant b. Patient who will need monitoring for several hours after a renal arteriogram c. Patient who requires teaching about possible post-cystoscopy complications d. Patient who will have catheterization to check for residual urine after voiding
ANS: D LPN/LVN education includes common procedures such as catheterization of stable patients. The other patients require more complex assessments and/or patient teaching that are included in registered nurse (RN) education and scope of practice.
27. Which assessment data reported by a 28-year-old male patient is consistent with a lower urinary tract infection (UTI)? a. Poor urine output b. Bilateral flank pain c. Nausea and vomiting d. Burning on urination
ANS: D Pain with urination is a common symptom of a lower UTI. Urine output does not decrease, but frequency may be experienced. Flank pain and nausea are associated with an upper UTI.
21. Which statement by a patient who had a cystoscopy the previous day should be reported immediately to the health care provider? a. "My urine looks pink." b. "My IV site is bruised." c. "My sleep was restless." d. "My temperature is 101."
ANS: D The patient's elevated temperature may indicate a bladder infection, a possible complication of cystoscopy. The health care provider should be notified so that antibiotic therapy can be started. Pink-tinged urine is expected after a cystoscopy. The insomnia and bruising should be discussed further with the patient but do not indicate a need to notify the health care provider.
4. The nurse assesses a patient with fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. Which finding would indicate a need for patient teaching? a. The patient takes glucosamine daily for knee and hip pain. b. The patient attends a weekly yoga class to improve flexibility and balance. c. The patient states that prayer helps improve the pain and her ability to function. d. The patient obtains information about herbs from a salesperson at a health food store.
ANS: D The sales personnel at a health food store are not necessarily a reliable source of information. The patient may need some teaching about the safe use of herbal remedies. The other information given by the patient indicates appropriate use of complementary and alternative therapies.
2. The nurse determines that instruction regarding prevention of future urinary tract infections (UTIs) has been effective for a 22-year-old female patient with cystitis when the patient states which of the following? a. "I can use vaginal antiseptic sprays to reduce bacteria." b. "I will drink a quart of water or other fluids every day." c. "I will wash with soap and water before sexual intercourse." d. "I will empty my bladder every 3 to 4 hours during the day."
ANS: D Voiding every 3 to 4 hours is recommended to prevent UTIs. Use of vaginal sprays is discouraged. The bladder should be emptied before and after intercourse, but cleaning with soap and water is not necessary. A quart of fluids is insufficient to provide adequate urine output to decrease risk for UTI.
5. The nurse is caring for a 62-yr-old woman taking tolterodine (Detrol) to treat urinary urgency and incontinence. Which instruction should be included in the discharge plan? A "Stop smoking for 2 to 3 weeks before starting to take this medication." B "Suck on sugarless candy or chew sugarless gum if you develop a dry mouth." C "Have your vision checked every 6 months because this drug can cause cataracts." D "Ask your physician to prescribe an extended-release form if you have loose stools."
B Dry mouth is a common side effect of tolterodine. Patients can suck on hard candy or ice chips or chew gum if dry mouth occurs. Tobacco use does not affect the initiation of this medication. Visual changes (but not cataracts) can occur while taking this medication. Constipation may occur as a side effect of this medication.
3. A patient has sought care because of recent difficulties in establishing and maintaining a urine stream as well as pain that occasionally accompanies urination. How should the nurse document this abnormal assessment finding? A Anuria B Dysuria C Oliguria D Enuresis
B Painful and difficult urination is characterized as dysuria. Whereas anuria is an absence of urine production, oliguria is diminished urine production. Enuresis is involuntary nocturnal urination.
3. The nurse provides nutritional counseling for a 45-yr-old man with nephrotic syndrome. The nurse determines teaching has been successful if the patient selects which breakfast menu? A Scrambled eggs, milk, yogurt, and sliced ham B Oatmeal, nondairy creamer, banana, and orange juice C Cottage cheese, peanut butter, white bread, and coffee D Waffle, bacon strips, tomato juice, and canned peaches
B Patients with nephrotic syndrome should follow a low-sodium (2-3 g/day), low- to moderate-protein (0.5-0.6 g/kg/day) diet. Ham, milk products, peanut butter, and bacon are high in sodium. Eggs, milk products, and peanut butter are high in protein.
16. A 22-yr-old patient's blood pressure during a pre-employment physical examination was 110/68 mm Hg. During a health fair 2 months later, the blood pressure is 154/96 mm Hg. What renal problem could contribute to this rise in blood pressure? A Renal trauma B Renal artery stenosis C Renal vein thrombosis D Benign nephrosclerosis
B Renal artery stenosis contributes to an abrupt rise in blood pressure, especially in people younger than 30 or older than 50 years of age. Renal trauma usually has hematuria. Renal vein thrombosis causes flank pain, hematuria, fever, or nephrotic syndrome. Benign nephrosclerosis usually occurs in adults 30 to 50 years of age and is a result of vascular changes resulting from hypertension.
2. The nurse is performing an assessment for a patient and preparing to palpate the kidneys. How should the nurse position the patient for this assessment? A Prone B Supine C Seated at the edge of the bed D Standing, facing away from the nurse
B To palpate the right kidney, the patient is positioned supine, and the nurse's left hand is placed behind and supports the patient's right side between the rib cage and the iliac crest. The right flank is elevated with the left hand, and the right hand is used to palpate deeply for the right kidney. The normal-sized left kidney is rarely palpable because the spleen lies directly on top of it.
17. The nurse is caring for a patient with a nephrostomy tube. The tube has stopped draining. After receiving orders, what should the nurse do? A Keep the patient on bed rest. B Use 5 mL of sterile saline to irrigate. C Use 30 mL of water to gently irrigate. D Have the patient turn from side to side.
B With a nephrostomy tube, if the tube is occluded and irrigation is ordered, the nurse should use 5 mL or less of sterile saline to gently irrigate it. The patient with a ureteral catheter may be kept on bed rest after insertion, but this is unrelated to obstruction. Only sterile solutions are used to irrigate any type of urinary catheter. With a suprapubic catheter, the patient should be instructed to turn from side to side to ensure patency.
8. An older male patient visits his primary care provider because of burning on urination and production of foul-smelling urine. What contributing factor should the health care provider consider? A High-purine diet B Sedentary lifestyle C Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) D Recent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics
C BPH causes urinary stasis, which is a predisposing factor for UTIs. A sedentary lifestyle and recent antibiotic use are unlikely to contribute to UTIs, but a diet high in purines is associated with renal calculi.
14. The nurse prepares a patient for discharge after a cystoscopy. It is most important for the nurse to provide additional information in response to which patient statement? A "I should drink plenty of fluids to prevent complications." B "If my urine is cloudy, I should contact my health care provider." C "Bright red bleeding is normal for a few days after the procedure." D "Sitz baths and acetaminophen will help to reduce my discomfort."
C Bright red bleeding after a cystoscopy is not normal and should be reported immediately. Other complications include urinary retention, bladder infection, and perforation of the bladder. Patients should drink plenty of fluids and expect burning on urination, pink-tinged urine, and urinary frequency. Warm sitz baths, heat, and mild analgesics may be used to relieve discomfort.
10. The nurse is caring for an older adult patient taking bumetanide. What age-related changes does the nurse inform the patient that may be experienced? A Benign enlargement of prostatic tissues B Decreased sensation of bladder capacity C Decreased function of the loop of Henle D Less absorption in the Bowman's capsule
C Bumetanide (Bumex) is a loop diuretic that acts in the loop of Henle to decrease reabsorption of sodium and chloride. Because the loop of Henle loses function with aging, the excretion of drugs becomes less and less efficient. Thus, the circulating levels of drugs are increased and their effects prolonged. The benign enlargement of prostatic tissue, decreased sensation of bladder capacity, and loss of concentrating ability do not directly affect the action of loop diuretics.
13. A patient has scleroderma and hypertension. The nurse knows this could be related to which renal diagnoses? A Obstructive uropathy B Goodpasture syndrome C Chronic glomerulonephritis D Calcium oxalate urinary calculi
C Hypertension occurs with chronic glomerulonephritis, which may be found in patients with scleroderma. Obstructive uropathy, Goodpasture syndrome, and calcium oxalate urinary calculi are not related to scleroderma and do not cause hypertension.
14. When caring for a patient with nephrotic syndrome, which food selection indicates the patient understands dietary teaching? A Peanut butter and crackers B One small grilled pork chop C Salad made of fresh vegetables D Spaghetti with canned spaghetti sauce
C Of the options listed, only salad made with fresh vegetables would be acceptable for the diet that limits sodium and protein as well as saturated fat if hyperlipidemia is present. Peanut butter and crackers are processed, so they contain significant sodium, and peanut butter contains some protein. A pork chop is a high-protein food with saturated fat. Canned spaghetti sauce is also high in sodium.
8. A patient informs the nurse that they are having burning on urination, dysuria, and frequency. What is the best response by the nurse? A "Drink less fluid so you don't have to void so often." B "Take some acetaminophen to decrease the discomfort." C "Come in so we can check a clean-catch urine specimen." D "Avoid caffeine and spicy food to decrease inflammation."
C The patient's symptoms are typical of a urinary tract infection. To verify this, a clean-catch urine specimen must be obtained for a specimen of urine to culture. Drinking less fluid will not improve the symptoms. Acetaminophen would not decrease the discomfort; an antibiotic would be needed. Avoiding caffeine and spicy food may decrease bladder inflammation but will not affect these symptoms.
15. Which instruction should the nurse provide when teaching a patient to exercise the pelvic floor? A Tighten both buttocks together. B Squeeze thighs together tightly. C Contract muscles around rectum. D Lie on back and lift the legs together.
C To teach pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercise), the nurse should instruct the patient (without contracting the legs, buttocks, or abdomen) to contract the muscles around the rectum (pelvic floor muscles) as if stopping a stool, which should result in a pelvic lifting sensation.
7. A patient in the intensive care unit is receiving gentamicin for treatment of pneumonia from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. What assessment results should the nurse report to the health care provider? A Decreased weight B Increased appetite C Increased urinary output D Elevated creatinine level
D Gentamicin can be toxic to the kidneys and the auditory system. The elevated creatinine level must be reported to the physician because it probably indicates renal damage. Other factors that may occur with renal damage would include increased weight and decreased urinary output. Many medications have side effects of anorexia.
5. The nurse obtained a urine specimen from a patient. What result should the nurse recognize as an abnormal finding? A pH of 6.0 B Amber yellow color C Specific gravity of 1.025 D White blood cells (WBCs) 9/hpf
D Normal WBC levels in urine are below 5/hpf, with levels exceeding this indicative of inflammation or urinary tract infection. A urine pH of 6.0 is average; amber yellow is normal coloration, and the reference range for specific gravity is 1.003 to 1.030.
9. The nurse is providing care for a patient admitted to the hospital for treatment of nephrotic syndrome. What are the priority nursing assessments? A Assessment of pain and level of consciousness B Assessment of serum calcium and phosphorus levels C Blood pressure and assessment for orthostatic hypotension D Daily weights and measurement of the patient's abdominal girth
D Peripheral edema is characteristic of nephrotic syndrome, and a key nursing responsibility in the care of patients with the disease is close monitoring of abdominal girth, weights, and extremity size. Pain, level of consciousness, and orthostatic blood pressure are less important in the care of patients with nephrotic syndrome. Abnormal calcium and phosphorus levels are not commonly associated with the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome.
6. When a patient reports acute, severe, renal colic pain in the lower abdomen, the nurse suspects that the patient is most likely to have an obstruction at which area? A Kidney B Urethra C Bladder D Ureterovesical junction
D The ureterovesical junction is the narrowest part of the urethra and easily obstructed by urinary calculi. With a stone in the kidney or at the ureteropelvic junction, the pain may be dull costovertebral flank pain. Stones in the bladder do not cause obstruction or symptoms unless they are staghorn stones. The urethra seldom has obstruction related to stones.
20. A patient admitted to the emergency department after a motor vehicle accident. Which urinalysis findings would the nurse expect if kidney trauma occurred (select all that apply.)? A Casts B Glucose C Bilirubin D Myoglobinuria E Red blood cells F White blood cells
D E After kidney trauma, the nurse will expect urinalysis results to be positive for myoglobin and red blood cells. Casts in urine indicate blood destruction intravascularly. Glucose in urine could indicate diabetes. Bilirubin in urine is suggestive liver dysfunction. White blood cells in urine indicate infection.