Master Glomerulonephritis Assessment with Picmonic for Nursing RN

Acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) occurs 5 to 21 days after an infection of the skin, tonsils, or pharynx by nephrotoxic strains of group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS). This type of acute glomerulonephritis is most common in children and young adults.

Due to an increase in extracellular fluid volume, the patient will present with hypertension.

Hematuria with a smoky or rusty appearance is often present, which indicates bleeding in the upper urinary tract.

The amount of proteinuria varies depending on the severity of the disease and can range from mild to severe.

Due to a decrease in kidney function, the patient may manifest with oliguria or a low urine output.

Due to a decrease in glomerular filtration, fluid retention occurs. This results in generalized edema, beginning first in low-pressure tissues, such as around the eyes and later progressing to the whole body to include peripheral edema and ascites.

Blood tests often reflect an increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (CRE).

Patients may experience abdominal or flank pain due to the location of the kidneys.