bddd256a_rsing_Diagnoses_Renal_Function__Nursing_Process
[Nursing diagnoses] Knowledge deficit related to dietary modifications and medications [Nursing Process] 
Medications are used to reduce uric acid levels and foods that are high in purines should be eliminated from the diet. Alcohol should be avoided because it inhibits urate excretion. The nurse should emphasize the importance of the patient maintaining adequate nutrition. Fasting or starvation diets cause an increase in serum acid levels; therefore, any needed weight reduction must be done gradually. Unless contraindicated, the patient should be well hydrated. Depending on the level of the serum uric acid and pathophysiology of the patient's problem, the physician may order colchicine or indomethacin to relieve signs and symptoms. For maintenance therapy, drugs such as probenecid or allopurinol may be given. The nurse has an important role in teaching patients and families about the need for dietary modifications and appropriate use of medications. In many cases, maintenance drug therapy will be continued for long periods of time or for the patient's lifetime. In addition to dietary modifications, adequate hydration and medications, keeping the urine alkaline may decrease the risk of the patient developing kidney stones associated with hyperuricemia. Normal urine has an acid pH because cheese, eggs, bread, meat, fish, poultry, and some fruits and vegetables, produce acid waste products. Medications such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium citrate may be given to help make the urine less acidic. For patients whose hyperuricemia is due to renal failure, caution should be used in giving substances that increase the potential for electrolyte or acid-base imbalance.
Nursing Diagnoses/Renal Function
Nursing Process