A person-centred approach to assessing the renal system

The functions of the renal system (also called the urinarysystem) are to regulate and maintain body fluids and electrolyte balance, to filter metabolic wastes from the bloodstream, to reabsorb needed substances and water into the bloodstream, and to eliminate metabolic wastes and water as urine. The renal system also has an indirect role in maintaining the body's the blood pressure, acid- base balance and an endocrine function. Any alteration in the structure or function of the renal system affects the whole body. In turn, healthy renal system function depends on the health of other body systems, especially the circulatory, endocrine and nervous systems.