Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

The urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) is a widely accepted screening test for detecting kidney damage, particularly in individuals at high risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as those with diabetes or hypertension. This test evaluates the presence of albumin in the urine, which can indicate kidney impairment. In healthy kidneys, only small amounts of albumin enter the urine; however, when kidney damage occurs, the permeability of the glomeruli increases, allowing more albumin to leak into the urine. Measuring the UACR provides a practical and non-invasive way to assess kidney function and identify early signs of kidney-related complications.

Other tests listed, such as serum electrolytes, blood pressure monitoring, and complete blood count, play crucial roles in assessing overall health and managing patients with kidney issues, but they do not specifically target early signs of kidney damage. Serum electrolytes assess blood chemistry and balance, blood pressure monitoring is essential for managing cardiovascular risk in patients with kidney issues, and a complete blood count provides information on overall health but does not specifically indicate kidney damage. Thus, the UACR stands out as the most direct and relevant test for screening kidney damage.