Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test 2026 - Free Dialysis Nurse Practice Questions and Study Guide

In nephrosclerosis, which is a condition characterized by the hardening of the kidney's blood vessels, proteinuria is often a significant laboratory finding. This occurs due to the damage and thickening of the glomerular capillaries, which leads to abnormal permeability. As a result, proteins that normally would not pass through the renal filtration barrier start to leak into the urine. Proteinuria can indicate that the kidneys are no longer functioning properly and can be a marker of declining renal health.

The presence of protein in the urine is an important diagnostic indicator for assessing kidney damage and function, particularly in relation to conditions that affect blood pressure and vascular health, such as hypertension and diabetes, which can contribute to nephrosclerosis. Therefore, recognizing proteinuria is essential for appropriate diagnosis and management of patients with kidney disease.