25. The Urinary System

Renal Physiology Step 1: Glomerular Filtration

Open Question
Normal urine should have which of the following properties? Circle all that apply.

a. Translucency
b. Yellowish pigment
c. Cloudy appearance
d. pH less than 4.5
Open Question
The GFR may be estimated by measuring the rate at which certain substances are removed from the blood, which is known as:

a. renal clearance.
b. plasma creatinine.
c. glomerular hydrostatic pressure.
d. inulin estimation.
Open Question
What might it mean if you found a high concentration of urobilinogen in your patient's urine? (Hint: Consider the source of urobilinogen.) (Connects to Chapter 19)
Open Question
Patty, aged 55, is awakened by excruciating pain that radiates from her right abdomen to the loin and groin regions on the same side. The pain is not continuous but recurs at intervals of 3 to 4 minutes. Diagnose her problem, and cite factors that might favor its occurrence.
Open Question
While repairing a frayed utility wire, Kevin, an experienced lineman, slips and falls to the ground. Medical examination reveals a fracture of his lower spine and transection of the lumbar region of the spinal cord. How will Kevin's micturition be controlled from this point on? Will he ever again feel the need to void? Will there be dribbling of urine between voidings? Explain the reasoning behind all your responses.
Open Question
Contrast the following homeostatic imbalances: oliguria, anuria, polyuria, and nocturia.
Open Question
Describe the changes that occur in kidney and bladder function in old age.