Ace the Certified Nephrology Nurse 2025 Exam – Dive into Dialysis Mastery!

Azotemia is primarily characterized by high levels of urea nitrogen in the blood, specifically indicated by elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. This condition often arises from kidney dysfunction, where the kidneys are unable to effectively filter waste products from the blood, leading to an accumulation of nitrogenous waste. An increase in the concentration of these substances in the bloodstream is a hallmark of impaired renal function and is central to diagnosing azotemia.

While fluid retention and changes in urination may be associated with kidney issues, they are not defining symptoms of azotemia itself. Increased or decreased urination can vary based on the specific causes of kidney impairment, such as acute or chronic kidney disease, but they do not specifically characterize azotemia. Thus, recognizing elevated blood urea nitrogen as the central feature clarifies the understanding of azotemia in clinical practice.