Acute Kidney Injury NCLEX Questions
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
Certainly! Here’s an NCLEX-style question on Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), along with the correct answer and a detailed explanation:
Question:
A nurse is assessing a patient who has been diagnosed with acute kidney injury (AKI). Which of the following findings is most indicative of AKI?
A. Decreased blood pressure
B. Decreased urine output
C. Elevated blood glucose levels
D. Increased respiratory rate
Correct Answer: B. Decreased urine output
Explanation:
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a sudden decline in kidney function, which can occur over hours to days. It is characterized by a rapid increase in serum creatinine levels and/or a decrease in urine output. The decrease in urine output is a key indicator of AKI and is commonly used to diagnose and monitor the severity of the condition.
Decreased Urine Output: In AKI, the kidneys are unable to filter waste products effectively, leading to a significant reduction in urine production. This decreased urine output, also known as oliguria, is one of the primary signs of AKI. The reduction in urine output is crucial for diagnosing AKI and is often used to gauge the extent of kidney impairment. This finding is critical for the nurse to monitor and report, as it directly reflects the kidney’s ability to excrete waste and maintain fluid balance.
Other Options:
- Decreased Blood Pressure: While hypotension can be associated with AKI, especially in cases of prerenal AKI due to decreased blood flow, it is not as specific to AKI as decreased urine output. Blood pressure changes can also be influenced by various other conditions and factors.
- Elevated Blood Glucose Levels: Elevated glucose levels are more indicative of diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemic conditions rather than AKI. AKI does not typically cause a direct increase in blood glucose.
- Increased Respiratory Rate: An increased respiratory rate may be seen in various conditions such as respiratory distress or metabolic acidosis but is not a primary indicator of AKI.
In summary, decreased urine output is a hallmark sign of AKI and is essential for diagnosis and management. Monitoring urine output helps in evaluating the severity of the kidney injury and guiding appropriate interventions to support kidney function and overall patient health.