Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

25. The Urinary System

Renal Physiology: Overview

Anatomy & Physiology

25. The Urinary System

Renal Physiology: Overview

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is commonly used to decrease elevated potassium levels in patients with acute renal failure?

Furosemide

Erythropoietin

Calcium carbonate

Insulin with glucose

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the physiological context: Elevated potassium levels, known as hyperkalemia, can occur in patients with acute renal failure due to the kidneys' inability to excrete potassium effectively. Hyperkalemia can lead to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias, so it requires prompt management.

Review the mechanism of action for insulin with glucose: Insulin facilitates the uptake of potassium into cells by stimulating the sodium-potassium ATPase pump. Administering glucose alongside insulin prevents hypoglycemia, which could occur due to insulin's effect on blood sugar levels.

Compare the other options: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can help excrete potassium through urine, but it is not as rapid in action as insulin with glucose. Erythropoietin is used to stimulate red blood cell production and does not affect potassium levels. Calcium carbonate is used to manage hyperphosphatemia and does not directly lower potassium levels.

Explain why insulin with glucose is preferred: Insulin with glucose is commonly used in acute settings because it rapidly shifts potassium from the extracellular space into cells, effectively lowering serum potassium levels temporarily while other measures (like dialysis) are prepared.

Highlight the importance of monitoring: After administering insulin with glucose, continuous monitoring of potassium levels and cardiac function is essential to ensure the patient remains stable and to prevent rebound hyperkalemia.