(^380) Medical-Surgical Nursing Demystified
INTERPRETING TEST RESULTS
- Urinalysis shows red blood cells and red blood cell casts.
- Glomerular filtration rate will be decreased.
- 24-hour urine collection for protein will be elevated.
- BUN level will be increased.
- Serum albumin will be decreased.
- Renal biopsy to determine cause.
TREATMENT
- Monitor renal function.
- Monitor electrolyte levels.
- Monitor vital signs.
- Administer diuretics to remove excess fluids.
- Monitor urinary output.
- Restrict fluid intake—measure output, intake should match 24-hour output
plus 500 cc. - Plasmapheresis if due to autoimmune cause.
NURSING DIAGNOSIS
- Impaired urinary elimination
- Excess fluid volume
NURSING INTERVENTIONS
- Monitor vital signs.
- Monitor intake and output.
- Weigh daily.
- Assess respiratory system for lung sounds, difficulty breathing, crackles in
lungs suggesting fluid overload. - Assess cardiovascular status, heart rate, heart sounds, presence of S 3 sug-
gesting fluid overload.