Certified Nephrology Nurse Certification (CNN) Practice Exam

What effect does NSAIDs have on kidney function?

1. Enhances renal perfusion

2. Promotes urinary retention

3. Can cause interstitial nephritis

4. Reduces glomerular filtration rate

The correct answer is: Can cause interstitial nephritis

The correct answer highlights that NSAIDs can indeed cause interstitial nephritis, which is inflammation of the spaces between the renal tubules. This condition can occur due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis that NSAIDs cause. Prostaglandins play a crucial role in maintaining blood flow to the kidneys, especially when renal perfusion is compromised. When NSAIDs block these compounds, it can lead to reduced blood flow and subsequent inflammation, contributing to the development of interstitial nephritis. The other options do not accurately reflect the impact of NSAIDs on kidney function. While NSAIDs are known to compromise kidney function, they do not enhance renal perfusion or promote urinary retention; instead, they can lead to decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) due to their adverse effects on renal hemodynamics. Understanding these mechanisms helps underscore the importance of careful monitoring of kidney function in patients who require NSAID treatment.