Question

A hospitalized client with chronic renal failure has returned to the nursing unit after a hemodialysis treatment. Which parameters contained in the predialysis and postdialysis documentation does the nurse utilize to determine if the procedure was effective?

a) Blood pressure and heart rate
b) Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation
c) Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels
d) Urine output and electrolyte levels

Answer 1

The nurse utilizes parameters such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, as well as urine output and electrolyte levels, to determine the effectiveness of a hemodialysis treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

After a hemodialysis treatment, the nurse utilizes parameters such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, as well as urine output and electrolyte levels, to determine the effectiveness of the procedure. These parameters provide information about the filtration and excretion functions of the kidneys.

The BUN and creatinine levels indicate how well the waste products are being removed from the blood. If these levels decrease after hemodialysis, it suggests that the procedure was effective in removing waste.

Similarly, monitoring urine output and electrolyte levels helps assess the patient's fluid balance and kidney function. An increase in urine output and normalization of electrolyte levels indicate successful removal of excess water and restoration of electrolyte balance.