Overview Flashcards
(18 cards)
Why is the right kidney lower than the left?
Due to the liver’s location.
The liver occupies space in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, pushing the right kidney lower.
List the functions of the kidneys.
- Acid-base balance
- Water balance
- Electrolyte balance
- Toxin removal
- Blood pressure control
- Erythropoietin production
- Vitamin D metabolism
These functions are critical for maintaining homeostasis in the body.
What are the key structures of the kidney?
- Renal pelvis
- Renal vein
- Renal artery
- Renal medulla
- Renal cortex
- Renal pyramid
- Renal column
- Hilum
- Papilla
- Ureter
Each structure has a specific role in the kidney’s function and urine formation.
Define dysuria.
Pain while urinating.
Dysuria can be a symptom of urinary tract infections or other conditions.
What is nocturia?
Excessive urination at night.
Nocturia can disrupt sleep and may indicate underlying health issues.
What does hematuria indicate?
Bloody urine.
Hematuria can be a sign of various medical conditions, including infections or kidney stones.
What is the definition of frequency in urinary terms?
Voiding more than every 3 hours.
This symptom may suggest bladder irritation or infection.
Define urgency in the context of urination.
Strong desire to void.
Urgency can be caused by various factors, including infections or overactive bladder.
What is incontinence?
Involuntary voiding.
Incontinence can range from minor leakage to complete loss of bladder control.
What does enuresis refer to?
Involuntary voiding during sleep.
Commonly known as bedwetting, enuresis is often seen in children.
Define proteinuria.
Abnormal protein in urine.
Proteinuria can indicate kidney damage or disease.
What is oliguria?
Urine output <400 mL/day.
Oliguria may signal dehydration or kidney dysfunction.
What is anuria?
Urine output <50 mL/day.
Anuria is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
What does micturition mean?
Voiding.
Micturition is the process by which urine is expelled from the bladder.
What is glomerular filtration?
Filters water, electrolytes, and small molecules from blood into the glomerulus.
This is the first step in urine formation.
Describe tubular reabsorption.
Fluid moves from renal tubules into capillaries for reabsorption into venous circulation.
This process helps retain essential substances in the body.
What is tubular secretion?
Fluid moves from capillaries into renal tubules for excretion.
Tubular secretion plays a role in eliminating waste from the blood.
How much urine should adults void per day?
1-2 L/day, with a minimum of 30 mL/hr.
Adequate urine output is essential for assessing kidney function.
