Identify the 4 major parts of the urinary system. What does each one do?
o
o
o
o
2. Let’s go waaay back to A&P. Remember the nephron, the functional unit of the kidneys? Not so much? Well it’s time to review! Describe the different parts (and sub-parts) of the nephron, and identify what each part does. You could even draw a picture if you want! (Don’t peek ahead to #4 until you answer this question first!)
· Part 1:
o Function:
· Part 2:
o Function:
· Part:
o Sub-part 1:
o Sub-part 2:
o Sub-part 3:
3. What is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR)? I want a definition AND a number. What factors can affect GFR?
4. Describe how the blood is filtered on a cellular level. Basically, if you were floating along in the blood stream, what would happen to you when you get to the kidneys? Where would you go and how would you get there? And don’t you dare just copy it out of the book, you’ll never begin to understand it that way!
In the Glomerulus:
In Bowman’s Capsule:
In the Proximal Convoluted Tubule:
In the Loop of Henle:
In the Distal Convoluted Tubule:
5) Name a common medication that has its effect on the Loop of Henle. What classification is this medication, what does it do, and why is it given? How does it works?
6) The kidneys have 3 other important functions besides filtering blood. What are they and what effect do they have on the body?
7) Now that you know the 3 major functions of the kidneys (besides filtering blood), what kinds of signs and symptoms would a patient have if the kidneys weren’t able to do these things?
o
o
o
Nicole is a Professional Nursing Tutor with over 15 years experience, and the founder of Your Nursing Tutor. She has a BSN, and an MA in Clinical Psychology. Nicole specializes in providing easy-to-follow, proven study methods (like the Silver Bullet Study System) that transform frustrated nursing students into calm, confident nurses! When she’s not helping students through her Live Tutoring Membership, Nicole loves spending time with her husband, homeschooling their 6 kids, and staring at sunflowers.