Long-Term Care

Monitor at-risk residents to prevent permanent kidney damage

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, January 29, 2009

Prerenal azotemia, the most common form of kidney failure seen in hospitalized patients, is a very serious condition that can cause permanent renal damage and failure. Being aware of the resident’s risk factors, prevention of dehydration, and close monitoring are always best. Regularly monitor the at-risk resident’s laboratory values. Other nursing measures are as follows:

  • Monitor input and output; never hesitate to order input and output as a nursing measure
  • Evaluate fluid I&O every 24 hours and compare with dietitian’s recommended fluid intake
  • Monitor weight
  • Monitor vital signs
  • Monitor level of consciousness
  • Encourage fluids

This is an excerpt from HCPro’s book The Long-Term Care Nursing Desk Reference, written by Barbara Acello, MS, RN.

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