Biological basis of child health 15: understanding the renal system and common renal conditions in children
This article, the 15th and last in a series on the biological basis of child health, focuses on the renal system, in particular the kidneys. It provides an overview of their role, function, anatomy and physiology, and embryological development. The renal system has a crucial role in homeostasis, so renal function impairment can have wide-ranging and potentially serious consequences for a child’s overall health. The article describes some of the common renal conditions seen in children and how these are managed. It explains how to interpret the results of renal function tests and urine sampling conducted to assess renal function and to investigate acute and chronic disease.
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Why you should read this article
- to enhance your knowledge of the structure and functions of the renal system
- to recognise some of the renal conditions that may be seen in children and to understand how these are managed
- to count towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD, or you may wish to write a reflective account (UK readers)
- to contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)
Resource last reviewed
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Authors
Kate Davies (Associate professor of paediatric prescribing and endocrinology - London South Bank University, and honorary research fellow in paediatric endocrinology, Queen Mary University of London, London, England)
Suzanne Bradley (Renal clinical nurse specialist - Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust, Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, England)
Doreen Crawford (Consultant editor of Nursing Children and Young People and nurse adviser - Crawford-McKenzie, Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, England)
Suzanne Bradley (Renal clinical nurse specialist - Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust, Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, England)
Doreen Crawford (Consultant editor of Nursing Children and Young People and nurse adviser - Crawford-McKenzie, Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, England)
