Kidneys

Question 1

What are the 5 important tasks performed by the kidneys?

Answer 1

• Filter out waste products and toxins from the body, such as medicines, which leave the body in urine
• Maintain the right amount of fluid in the body, excreting excess water and conserving water if the person is dehydrated
• Help keep blood pressure at the correct level
• Convert vitamin D into its active form, which is needed for strong bones
• The kidneys make erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells

Question 2

What basic body processes are affected by dehydration?

Answer 2

• Digesting food and enabling nutrients to be absorbed
• Enabling blood to circulate around the body
• Removing waste products via urine and faeces
• Keeping cells and tissues moist, helping to avoid infection (wounds require a warm, moist healing environment)
• Controlling body temperature by perspiration
• Maintaining brain function

Question 3

Inadequate fluid intake can lead to dehydration and AKI. What are the symptoms of AKI?

Answer 3

• Reduced urine output
• Change to urine colour and smell
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pains and general malaise
• Dehydration/thirst
• New confusion and/or drowsiness