The nurse supervising a senior nursing student discusses methods for preventing acute kidney injury. Which points should the nurse include in the discussion? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and electrolyte levels provide critical information about renal function. Rising creatinine or BUN may indicate early kidney injury even before clinical symptoms develop. Regular monitoring allows for timely intervention and adjustment of therapies. B. Adequate hydration maintains renal perfusion and glomerular filtration, preventing ischemic injury to kidney tissue. Clients at risk of dehydration, such as those with vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or diuretic use, require careful fluid monitoring to reduce the risk of AKI. C. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aminoglycoside antibiotics, amphotericin B, and contrast agents can directly damage renal tissue. Nurses should review prescriptions, verify dosing, and discuss safer alternatives with prescribers to minimize nephrotoxic risk. D. Accurate tracking of fluid intake and urine output helps detect early fluid imbalances. Daily weights provide insight into fluid retention or loss, both of which are critical indicators of kidney function and overall fluid status. E. Oliguria (low urine output) is an early sign of AKI. Timely reporting allows for prompt assessment and intervention, which can prevent progression to more severe kidney injury or failure.