Which urinary system structure is considered the functional unit ...

[anjilletteb]

Which urinary system structure is considered the functional unit responsible for filtration and water absorption?
 
  a. Collecting duct
  b. Ureter
  c. Nephron
  d. Tubular system

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a female patient with stress incontinence how to perform pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFMEs). Which of the following statements indicates that the patient understands the procedure?
 
  a. I will practice by stopping and starting my urine flow.
  b. I will hold each contraction for 20 seconds.
  c. I will perform 30 to 45 contractions each morning.
  d. I will keep the contraction and relaxation times equal.

[kescobar@64]

Answer to Question 1

C
The nephron is the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney. The collecting duct, ureter, and tubular system are all incorrect because they are not the basic structural and functional unit, but are merely a part of it. Each nephron consists of a Bowman's capsule, enclosing a glomerulus (responsible for most of filtering), a series of filtrating tubules and a collecting duct. Together, these structures act as a microscopic filter, controlling the excretion and retention of fluids and solutes according to the body's moment-by-moment needs.

Answer to Question 2

D
Contraction and relaxation times should be equal. For example, the patient should hold the contraction for 5 seconds, and then relax for 5 seconds. The patient should be cautioned against doing pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFMEs) while actually urinating, because that can cause backflow of urine. Each contraction should be held for 5 to 10 seconds; 20-second contractions are too long. A recommended routine is to perform 10 to 15 PFMEs three times a day. The exercises should not be done all at one time.

[anjilletteb]

Excellent

[elyse44]

TYSM