Description

The kidneys have many functions: • Removal of metabolic and nitrogenous waste products (excretion). • Respond to changes in water levels (osmoregulation). • Maintain electrolyte balance. • Help to control acid base. • Produce hormones that regulate blood pressure. • Red blood cell production. If the kidneys are damaged, regardless of the cause, then they are unable to perform these tasks, and this leads to multiple complications for the patient. During this webinar I will discuss the various causes of renal disease and how they can be managed. Most patients with renal disease will be hospitalised at some point and all their needs should be met. • Padded bedding in a warm, clean stress-free environment. • Time to rest and sleep. • Regular opportunity to urinate, due to high fluid therapy rates. • Water should be freely available, fresh and easily accessible. • Fluid therapy to correct losses and to maintain hydration afterwards. • Monitor hydration status and monitor for volume overload. • Electrolyte supplementation (K+) • Clinical examination at least twice a day. • Pain scores every 4 hours or as required. • Intravenous catheter care and to consider a jugular catheter. • Oral hygiene, patients may develop ulcers on their tongue and oral mucosa. These can be very painful. • Suitable nutrition to meet the patients RER, consider a feeding tube.