Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

What do the kidneys balance in the body?

1. Blood sugar

2. Fluid and electrolytes

3. Cancer cells

4. Oxygen levels

The correct answer is: Fluid and electrolytes

The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the body, particularly in regulating fluid balance and electrolyte levels. They achieve this through various processes, including filtration, reabsorption, and secretion. The kidneys filter blood to remove waste products and excess substances, returning the necessary electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, back into the bloodstream. This balance of electrolytes is essential for normal cellular function, muscle contractions, and nerve signaling. Additionally, the kidneys help manage fluid levels by adjusting the amount of urine produced based on the body's hydration status, which is vital for maintaining blood pressure and overall fluid balance. While the other options may involve the body's functions, they do not reflect the primary role of the kidneys. Blood sugar regulation is primarily managed by the pancreas, cancer cell management is not a direct function of the kidneys, and oxygen levels in the body are primarily regulated through respiratory functions rather than kidney activity.