Renal Failure

Care Plan for Renal Failure Management

Category / Primary Body System

• Renal/Urological System

Problem

• Patient is at risk for complications due to renal failure.

Goal

• Patient will not have complications for 90 days.

Plan/Approach

1. Laboratory Monitoring

   • Draw labs as ordered, monitor results, and report to the attending physician to track renal function and electrolyte levels.

2. Medication Management

   • Administer medication for electrolyte imbalance, particularly for hyperkalemia. Monitor for symptoms such as initial tachycardia and bradycardia, ectopic beats, hypertension, nausea, explosive diarrhea, muscle weakness, and muscle cramps.

3. Seizure Monitoring

   • Monitor closely for seizures, as they are common in patients with renal failure.

4. Dietary Consultation

   • Consult with a dietician for diet modification as needed to support renal function and overall health.

5. Bowel Management

   • Use stool softeners and fiber to avoid constipation, which can be a complication of renal failure.

6. Rest and Weight Monitoring

   • Provide adequate rest to help manage fatigue and overall health.
   • Monitor weight weekly, notifying MD/RNP of any upward or downward trends.

7. Vital Signs Monitoring

   • Monitor vital signs regularly to detect any changes that may indicate complications.

8. Emotional Support and Education

   • Provide emotional support and education to the patient and family regarding the diagnosis, treatment plan, and lifestyle adjustments.

Rationale

1. Laboratory Monitoring

   • Regular lab tests help in early detection of imbalances and renal function deterioration, allowing timely interventions.

2. Medication Management

   • Proper medication management prevents complications like hyperkalemia, which can have severe cardiac consequences.

3. Seizure Monitoring

   • Seizures are a serious complication of renal failure and require immediate attention to prevent further harm.

4. Dietary Consultation

   • Diet modification is crucial for managing renal failure and preventing further complications.

5. Bowel Management

   • Constipation can worsen the patient's condition and is preventable with proper bowel management strategies.

6. Rest and Weight Monitoring

   • Adequate rest helps in managing symptoms, and weight monitoring can indicate fluid retention or loss, providing crucial information for managing the patient's condition.

7. Vital Signs Monitoring

   • Monitoring vital signs helps detect early signs of complications, allowing for prompt intervention.

8. Emotional Support and Education

   • Providing support and education helps the patient and family cope with the diagnosis, adhere to the treatment plan, and make necessary lifestyle adjustments.

Actions

1. Laboratory Monitoring

   • Draw and monitor lab results regularly, including electrolytes, BUN, creatinine, and report significant changes to the physician.

2. Medication Management

   • Administer prescribed medications for electrolyte imbalance and monitor for side effects and symptoms of hyperkalemia.

3. Seizure Monitoring

   • Observe the patient for any signs of seizures and take immediate action if they occur.

4. Dietary Consultation

   • Schedule and follow up on dietician consultations to ensure dietary needs are met.

5. Bowel Management

   • Administer stool softeners and ensure the patient has adequate fiber intake to prevent constipation.

6. Rest and Weight Monitoring

   • Ensure the patient gets adequate rest and record weekly weights, reporting any significant changes to the physician.

7. Vital Signs Monitoring

   • Check and document vital signs regularly, reporting any significant changes.

8. Emotional Support and Education

   • Provide emotional support through counseling and educate the patient and family about renal failure, its management, and the importance of adherence to the care plan.