22: BLOOD CULTURE
Key learning objectives Normal defence against blood stream infection Factors that increase risk of blood stream infection Bacterial species that cause blood stream infection Symptoms of blood stream infection Defining…
14: THERAPEUTIC DRUG MONITORING: LITHIUM, DIGOXIN AND THEOPHYLLINE
Key learning topics The concept of therapeutic drug monitoring Pharmacological action and clinical use of lithum, digoxin and theophylline Adverse (toxic) effects of lithium, digoxin and theophylline How blood values…
19: ERYTHROCYTE SEDIMENTATION RATE (ESR) AND PLASMA C-REACTIVE PROTEIN (CRP)
Key learning topics Understanding the ESR test What factors affect the rate at which red cells sediment Causes of increased ESR What is C-reactive protein Causes of increased plasma CRP…
Applied Anatomy and Physiology and the Renal Disease Process
On the concave surface of the kidney lies the hilus, from which the ureter and the main blood vessels and nerves access the kidney. The cut surface of the kidney…
Haemodialysis
Ultrafiltration and hydrostatic pressure As blood is pumped through a dialyser, a positive pressure will be exerted on the membrane. The pressure in the space on the opposite side of…
Peritoneal Dialysis
During PD, physiological solution or dialysis fluid is instilled into the peritoneal cavity. Uraemic toxins and solutes move across the membrane by the process of diffusion, from the blood stream…
Renal Transplantation
We therefore need to explore ways of increasing donor numbers in order to offer all suitable patients the chance of a transplant. Contraindications to Renal Transplantation Although the majority of…
Acute Kidney Injury
However, in recent years, the intensive care nurse has taken over from the renal nurse in caring for those requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Specific nursing activities for CRRT…
Renal Nutrition
encourage exercise, achieve healthy weight and stop smoking; if appropriate, discuss the risks and benefits of protein reduction; ensure malnutrition is prevented; offer dietary advice to people with progressive CKD…
Investigations in Kidney Disease
The correct collection procedure Before attempting venepuncture, the correct method of collection according to local policy should be ascertained and all necessary equipment assembled. There are many designated tubes available;…
