NEGATIVE HEALTH CONSEQUENCES

End Stage Renal Failure

The Role of the Kidneys

Filtration of the bloodstream

Remove excess waste and water

Blood pressure regulation

Hormone Secretion

The Need for Public Awareness

Increased demand for care secondary to1. Population Growth

2. Retiring Baby Boomers

3. Increased Prevalence of Diabetes

4. Increased Prevalence of High Blood Pressure

Personnel must understand the role of the kidneys

Dialysis technicians assist in public awareness

Filtering the Blood

Most important role of the kidneys

Blood vessels carry fluids past a membrane

Small particles pass from vessels to collection tubes

Filtrate is transported to the bladder

Loss of Filtration Capacity

Occurs when the kidneys are damaged

Allows water and waste to accumulate

Causes signs and symptoms of renal failure1. Swelling of the face, hands, and feet

2. Dry and itchy skin

3. Abnormal urine production

4. Bad breath

5. Metallic taste in the mouth

6. Muscle cramps

7. Fatigue

8. Diarrhea and constipation

Hormone Secretion

Erythropoietin1. In response to low red blood cell count

2. Tells the bone marrow to increase production

3. Deficiency results in low oxygen carrying capacity

4. Anemia

5. Enlarged heart (Ventricular Hypertrophy)

Calcitriol (Active Vitamin D)1. Helps facilitate calcium absorption in the gut

2. Deficiency results in secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH)

3. PTH pulls calcium from the bones

4. Brittle bones and calcium deposits in the vessels

Supporting Renal Health

Healthy diet

Daily exercise

Blood sugar control

Blood pressure control

Regular doctor’s visits

Public Awareness Campaigns

Critical to educating the public

Need to be improved and expanded

Require dialysis technician participation

Could reduce trend towards widespread renal failure