Summary

In study session VI you have learnt

• The two kidneys lie on the posterior wall of the abdomen, outside the peritoneal cavity
  
• Each kidney consists of about one million nephrons
• Blood flow to the two kidneys is normally about 22 per cent of the cardiac output, or 1100 ml/min.
• The composition of the various fluids differs with the requirements of each compartment
  
• Cell membranes are permeable to water and there is a continual flux of fluid among the different body compartments
  
• Te renal circulation is unique in that it has two capillary beds, the glomerular and peritubular capillaries.
  
• The afferent and efferent renal arterioles have sympathetic innervations from T4 to L2.
  
• Urine is formed as a result of a three phase process.
  
• In order to keep the renal blood flow and GFR relatively constant hydrostatic pressure in the glomerulus has to be kept fairly constant
• Renin is an enzyme which converts the plasma protein angiotensinogen to angiotensin I
• Reabsorption is by either active or passive transport.
• The distal tubule participates both qualitatively and quantitatively in acid-base control.
• Renin increases the production of angiotensin II which is released when there is a fall in intravascular volume.
• During evaluation: Ask about pattern of urine out put ( color ,consistency ,frequency, urgency, pain or burning upon urination and changes in urine color , blood ,
• In physical examination See for orbital and pre tibia edema and Costo-Vertebral Angle- tenderness
• Order urine analysis, renal function test and if patient is on diuretics or decreased urine output add electrolytes and communicate or consult physician accordingly.