Glomerulonephritis
What is it?
A condition that affects the kidneys’ glomeruli, increasing inflammation and impairing their ability to function properly. Causes: Immune disorders, history of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infections. The client may have had pharyngitis or tonsillitis 2 to 3 weeks before symptomsÂ
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Symptoms
- Blood in the urine (Hematuria)
- Proteinuria and Azotemia (↑ BUN)
- Foamy urine
- Smoky, brown-colored urine (coca cola urine)
- Hypertension
- Swelling in the face, feet, and ankles
- Decreased urine output
- ↑ antistreptylysin O titer (used to diagnosed streptoccocal infections)
Nursing Interventions
- Monitoring blood pressure
- Daily weight
- Monitor urine output
- Moderate sodium diet to prevent hypertension and edema
- Avoid high potassium foods if oliguric
- Restrict protein if azotemia present (↑ BUN)
- Diuretics and antihypertensives
- Teach parents to seek treatment for all streptococcal infections
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Complications: Renal failure, pulmonary edema, heart failure, hypertensive encephalopathy