RN Medical/Surgical NGN HESI 2023 Related

Review RN Medical/Surgical NGN HESI 2023 related questions and content

A client with renal insufficiency and a low red blood cell count asks, 'Is my anemia related to the renal insufficiency?' How should the nurse respond?

  • A. Red blood cells produce erythropoietin, which increases blood flow to the kidneys.
  • B. Your anemia and renal insufficiency are related to inadequate vitamin D and a loss of bone density.
  • C. Erythropoietin is usually released from the kidneys and stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow.
  • D. Kidney insufficiency inhibits active transportation of red blood cells throughout the blood.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Erythropoietin is produced in the kidney and is released in response to decreased oxygen tension in the renal blood supply. Erythropoietin stimulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. Anemia in renal insufficiency is often due to decreased erythropoietin production. Anemia and renal insufficiency are not manifestations of vitamin D deficiency as stated in choice B. Choice A is incorrect as erythropoietin does not increase blood flow to the kidneys. Choice D is incorrect because kidney insufficiency does not inhibit active transportation of red blood cells throughout the blood; rather, it affects erythropoietin production and subsequent red blood cell formation.