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.

An increase of fluid volume and accumulation of waste-byproduct in the bloodstream contributes to the incidence of hypertension.

Hematuria with a smoky, “tea-colored” or rusty appearance is often present and results from loss of blood.

Often described as increasingly “foamy” urine, the amount of proteinuria varies depending on the severity of the disease.

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

Due to a decrease in glomerular filtration and loss of protein to the urine, intravascular fluid retention occurs and results in generalized edema. Peripheral and dependent locations, such as around the eyes (periorbital) or lower legs are common locations of mild to moderate generalized edema, though other locations (e.g intraabdominal, or ascites) can develop with worsening severity.

Building waste-products in the blood stream is measured through serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels.

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