After completing this course you’ll be able to:
| 1. | Describe the main function of the kidneys. |
| 2. | List and describe the hormones produced by the kidneys. |
| 3. | Compare acute and chronic kidney failure. |
| 4. | Discuss the two main diseases that lead to kidney failure. |
| 5. | Discuss the use of drugs that lead to kidney failure. |
| 6. | Describe several symptoms of chronic kidney failure. |
| 7. | Describe the End-Stage Renal Disease program. |
| 8. | Discuss the concept of “remission” of chronic renal failure. |
| 9. | Discuss “doctor shopping.” |
| 10. | Discuss the effects of alcohol and smoking on kidney disease. |
| 11. | List foods to avoid when on a protein restricted diet. |
| 12. | Discuss the three important features of a very-low-protein diet. |
| 13. | Discuss high phosphate foods and give examples. |
| 14. | Discuss the role of nitrogen in a low protein diet. |
| 15. | Discuss supplements needed on a very-low-protein diet. |
| 16. | Define nitrogen balance. |
| 17. | Describe water intoxication. |
| 18. | Define hyponatremia and hypernatremia and state the normal range. |
| 19. | Compare pitting edema and pulmonary edema. |
| 20. | Discuss the response of the kidneys when dieresis is overdone. |
| 21. | Define “orthostatic” symptoms. |
| 22. | Describe what blood pressure is and how it is regulated by the body. |
| 23. | Discuss the role of sodium in hypertension. |
| 24. | Discuss briefly the various medications for hypertension. |
| 25. | Compare alkalosis and acidosis and state the treatment for each. |
| 26. | Describe iron deficiency and state the treatment. |
| 27. | Define hyperkalemia and state the treatment. |
| 28. | Describe the three mechanisms that regulate blood calcium concentration. |
| 29. | Describe gout and its symptoms. |
| 30. | Compare high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein. |
| 31. | Describe the effects of statins for elevated cholesterol levels. |
| 32. | State how angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) slow progression of kidney failure. |
| 33. | State the best screening test for chronic renal impairment. |
| 34. | Describe the four ways of measuring the glomerular filtration rate. |
| 35. | List the three major disadvantages to using a creatinine level as a measure of kidney function. |
| 36. | Describe the 24-hour urine test. |
| 37. | Define blinding |
| 38. | Describe the nephrotic syndrome and diet recommended. |
| 39. | Discuss the use of steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in kidney failure. |
| 40. | Describe what is involved when having a kidney transplant. |
| 41. | Compare hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. |
| 42. | Discuss withholding and withdrawal of dialysis. |