Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of measuring urine output over 24 hours?

1. To assess hydration status

2. To evaluate renal filtration and function

3. To determine fluid balance only

4. To predict disease outcomes

The correct answer is: To evaluate renal filtration and function

Measuring urine output over a 24-hour period serves several important purposes in patient care, one of which is to evaluate renal filtration and function. This measurement provides valuable insight into the kidneys' ability to filter blood and produce urine, which is critical for maintaining homeostasis in the body. By tracking urine output, healthcare providers can assess how well the kidneys are functioning. Consistently low urine output might indicate renal impairment, dehydration, or acute kidney injury, while excessively high urine output could suggest conditions like diabetes insipidus or renal disease. Thus, 24-hour urine measurement helps in diagnosing and monitoring renal function and overall fluid balance in patients. While other options relate to important aspects of patient care, they do not encompass the primary role that 24-hour urine output measurement plays in understanding kidney function comprehensively. For instance, assessing hydration status and determining fluid balance are part of the overall assessment but are not as directly linked to renal filtration processes. Predicting disease outcomes is a broader concept and may involve multiple factors beyond just urine output alone. Therefore, the focus on renal filtration and function highlights the critical nature of this assessment in progressive care nursing.