UNDERSTANDING KIDNEY FUNCTION

Updated 8/26

The kidneys and their function

Typically , each human being has two kidneys. 

They are two bean shaped organs situated in the 

flank area. The kidneys filter waste from the blood , 

which is excreted as urine. The bladder acts as a

reservoir for urine.

Failure of the kidneys to do their normal function is 

very distressing to the patient. Patients may become

confused because of the retained waste products. 

Pruritis ( itching) is also common. Urinary output 

in renal may be absent ( anuria) or low (oliguria).

Causes of renal failure:

Hypovolemia  , excessive volume depletion from, 

diarrhea, blood loss or diuretics result in decreased 

blood flow to the kidneys and are reversible by 

correction of the problem. Drug induced renal 

failure may or may be irreversible.

Dear nurses,

Just want to wish you a Happy and safe July 4th.

Above is a scenario on dehydration.

Nick and Tina decided to go backpacking

in a desert place. It is unclear why they did
not make adequate preparation and take 

enough fluids.

It is midday and they are lost.They are beginning
to feel thirsty, tired and light headed.These are

some of the symptoms of dehydration. Sweating 

which also causes fluid loss, may go unnoticed. 

Electrolyte imbalances may be caused by sweating 

and fluid loss.

Learn more by watching the video:

Sessions 57- Hydration vs. Dehydration