Chapter 23_1 flashcards
(15 cards)
Urological System: Main Components
Consists of the ureters, bladder, urethra, and in males, the prostate.
Obstructive Uropathy: Definition & Consequence
Any condition that blocks the free flow of urine from the body. Can lead to hydronephrosis (fluid buildup and swelling in the kidneys).
Minimum Urine Output for Waste Removal
The kidneys must produce a minimum of 400 mL of urine per day to effectively remove waste products. This is the obligatory urine output.
Oliguria: Definition
Reduced urine output of less than 400 mL per day.
Bladder Anatomy: Detrusor Muscle
The major muscle of the bladder wall. Its fibers expand to allow filling and contract to expel urine.
Autonomic Control of the Bladder
Sympathetic Nervous System: Relaxes the detrusor muscle and tightens the internal sphincter to allow the bladder to fill. Parasympathetic Nervous System: Contracts the detrusor muscle and relaxes the internal sphincter to enable urination.
Micturition Reflex (Urination)
A reflex controlled by the spinal cord and brain. Bladder wall stretch sends signals to the spinal cord, activating the parasympathetic system to contract the detrusor. The cerebral cortex provides voluntary control over the external sphincter.
Common Symptoms of Urological Dysfunction
Dysuria (painful urination), frequency (abnormally high number of times), urgency (feeling that urination is imminent), hesitancy (interrupted flow).
Urinalysis: Purpose
A basic diagnostic test that examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic characteristics of urine to detect abnormalities like blood, protein, glucose, ketones, nitrites, and leukocyte esterase.
Urine Culture: Purpose & Positive Result Criteria
Reveals the presence and type of bacteria growing in the urine. For a clean-catch sample, >100,000 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL of one bacteria type usually indicates infection.
Common Imaging Studies for Urological Disorders
Kidney-Ureter-Bladder (KUB) X-ray, Ultrasound, CT scan, and Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP) are used to visualize structures and identify stones, masses, or obstruction.
Cystoscopy: Definition
An invasive study where a scope is inserted through the urethra to directly visualize the bladder wall. Allows for biopsy of suspicious lesions.
Urodynamic Studies: Purpose
A group of tests that assess the bladder’s neuromuscular status, including its ability to store and release urine properly.
Urine Color: What It Can Indicate
Transparent/Pale Straw/Transparent Yellow: Normal, well-hydrated. Dark Yellow/Amber/Honey: Dehydration. Pink/Reddish: Possible blood in urine (UTI, stones, tumors) or from food (beets). Brown Ale: Possible liver disease or severe dehydration.
Foamy or Fizzing Urine: What It Can Indicate
Could be a harmless hydraulic effect, but if persistent, may indicate excess protein in the diet or a kidney problem.
