Renal System Case Study

Mr. Drummond is a 72-year-old male who is 2 days postoperative for a bowel obstruction. His urine output over the last 4 hours is less than 100 ml per hour. The MD has ordered Normal Saline IV at 200 ml per hour.

Question 1

The nephron being the functional unit of the kidney, list the three main functions the nephron is responsible for.

Question 2

The MD orders the following diagnostic and laboratory tests: kidney, ureter, and bladder roentgenography (KUB), intravenous pyelography, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Explain how each one can help in the diagnosis of kidney disease.

Question 3

Mr. Drummond has an elevated BUN and creatinine. The MD orders a creatinine clearance. Explain how this is done and what information it will give you to help diagnose Mr. Drummond’s renal problem.