Final answer:
The patient's lab findings indicate impaired calcium homeostasis, anemia, and reduced GFR, which all point to kidney dysfunction. After a renal biopsy, it is vital to monitor for urinary infection, test for microscopic bleeding, and manage any discomfort such as burning on urination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lab findings indicate impaired kidney function in several ways. A serum calcium level of 7.2 mg/dl (1.8 mmol/L) is lower than the normal range, suggesting a problem with the kidney's role in calcium homeostasis. Hemoglobin (Hg) at 9.6 g/dl (96 g/L) indicates anemia, which is often seen in chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to reduced erythropoietin production by the kidneys. Additionally, a serum creatinine of 3.2 mg/dl (283 μmmol/L) is elevated, suggesting reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and impaired renal function. After a renal biopsy, providing warm sitz baths to the patient may help relieve discomfort, but more importantly, it is crucial to monitor the patient for signs of urinary tract infection, check for microscopic bleeding using a urine dipstick test, and be aware that the patient might experience burning on urination.
Assessing renal function often involves blood and urine tests, including blood urea nitrogen (BUN), plasma creatinine, and routine urinalysis. Renal failure is diagnosed when creatinine or BUN levels are elevated, particularly when associated with reduced urine output (oliguria). Kidney biopsies help provide a definitive diagnosis and are performed when the renal function decline's cause is unclear.
Symptoms of kidney failure can include metabolic acidosis, heart arrhythmias, and uremia. It is critical to differentiate between CKD and acute renal failure (ARF), as ARF may be reversible. After a renal biopsy, the focus is on monitoring complications such as bleeding and infection.