AN OVERVIEW OF THE KIDNEYS

 

The clinical scenario above shows a 38 year old female
who has just been diagnosed with renal failure.

THE KIDNEYS ( an overview)
The kidneys are two bean shaped organs located in the
abdominal cavity on either side of the spine. They work
to filter out waste products from the blood.

If the kidneys fail, hemodialysis is ordered by the doctor, 
in an attempt to remove waste products. Depending on 
the situation, this may be short or long term.
Learn more by clicking on the link: Hemodialysis

Learn more about : Organ failure and transplantation


Anasarca and its causes

Anasarca, which is also known as generalised edema, may
be caused by a number of conditions. These include:
- Heart, renal or liver failure
- Low albumin (hypoalbuminemia), burns
- Corticosteroids and more

This topic, including quiz questions, continues here:
Anasarca 

The Braden Scale is used for predicting
pressure ulcers.These may develop in patients
who are confined to bed for long periods of time.
Turning , positioning and good body alignment
are ways in which this can be prevented. 


The nurse is responsible for documentation of any
 skin breakdown. An air mattress may be ordered
by the doctor, to prevent this from happening. 
Always follow your institution's policies for
using this scale.

Learn more about: Blood pressure







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