A nurse is concerned about renal function in an 84-year-old patient who is taking several medications. What should the nurse assess?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The proper index of renal function in older adults is creatinine clearance, which indicates renal function in older patients whose organs are undergoing age-related deterioration. Sodium and potassium levels are not indicative of renal function. Serum creatinine levels do not reflect kidney function in older adults because lean muscle mass, which is the source of creatinine in serum, declines and may be low even with reduced kidney function.

A Nurse Is Concerned About Renal Function in an 84-Year-Old