Question

The patient undergoes a cardiac catheterization that requires the use of contrast dyes during

the procedure. To detect signs of contrast-induced kidney injury, the nurse should
a. not be concerned unless urine output decreases.
b. evaluate the patient's serum creatinine for up to 72 hours after the procedure.
c. obtain an order for a renal ultrasound.
d. evaluate the patient's postvoid residual volume to detect intrarenal injury.

Answer 1

The nurse should evaluate the patient's serum creatinine for up to 72 hours after the procedure to detect signs of contrast-induced kidney injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should evaluate the patient's serum creatinine for up to 72 hours after the procedure in order to detect signs of contrast-induced kidney injury. Contrast dyes used during cardiac catheterization can potentially cause kidney damage, so monitoring serum creatinine levels is important to assess kidney function.

Contrast-induced kidney injury is a condition where the use of contrast dyes during medical procedures leads to kidney damage. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering and excreting waste products, including the contrast dyes. These dyes can sometimes cause damage to the kidneys, resulting in a decrease in kidney function.

Monitoring the patient's serum creatinine levels is one of the key ways to detect signs of kidney injury after the use of contrast dyes. Serum creatinine is a waste product that is normally filtered out by the kidneys. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, the levels of serum creatinine in the blood can increase. Monitoring serum creatinine levels for up to 72 hours after the procedure allows the nurse to detect any changes that may indicate contrast-induced kidney injury.