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Which assessment finding indicates impaired renal function?
Asked on Jan 08, 2026
Answer
Impaired renal function can be indicated by several assessment findings, with elevated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels being key indicators. These laboratory values reflect the kidneys' ability to filter waste products from the blood.
Example Concept: Elevated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are primary indicators of impaired renal function. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism, and BUN is a byproduct of protein metabolism. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they are unable to efficiently filter these substances, leading to increased levels in the blood. Monitoring these values helps in assessing kidney function and guiding treatment decisions.
Additional Comment:
- Elevated creatinine and BUN levels are often accompanied by other symptoms such as edema, hypertension, and changes in urine output.
- In the context of acute vs. chronic kidney issues, acute changes in these lab values may indicate acute kidney injury, whereas chronic elevation may suggest chronic kidney disease.
- Always correlate lab findings with clinical symptoms and patient history for a comprehensive assessment.
- Consider other factors that can affect these levels, such as dehydration or high protein intake, which may not necessarily indicate kidney impairment.
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