Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

Fluid overload can occur due to kidney dysfunction because the kidneys play a crucial role in regulating fluid balance in the body. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they lose the ability to effectively filter and excrete excess fluids and waste products. This can lead to the retention of sodium and water, causing the volume of fluid in the body to increase, which in turn can result in swelling (edema) and increased blood pressure.

In conditions such as chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury, patients often experience fluid overload as the kidneys cannot keep up with the body's fluid needs, leading to an accumulation of fluids. Monitoring fluid intake and output becomes essential in managing patients with kidney dysfunction to prevent complications related to fluid overload, such as heart failure or pulmonary edema.

While dehydration and excessive urination can be associated with kidney issues, they reflect different scenarios that are not primarily caused by the loss of kidney function to manage fluid balance effectively. Normal fluid levels would also not occur if the kidneys are unable to regulate fluids properly.