Glomerulonephritis in Children

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the internal kidney structures (glomeruli). Glomeruli itself has functions to help filter waste and fluids from the blood. This disease leads to proliferative and inflammatory changes within glomerular structure, as well as, destruction, inflammation and sclerosis of the glomeruli of both kidneys.

Inflammation in glumeruli due to an antigen-antibody reaction produced by an infection elsewhere in the body.

Casuse of glomerulonephritis:

• Autoimmune disease
• Immunological disease
• Streptococcal infection, group A beta-hemolytic
• History of pharyngitis or tonsillitis 2-3 week before the symptoms

Complication of Glomerulonephritis:

• Hypertensive encephalopathy
• Renal failure
• Heart failure
• Pulmonary edema

Signs and Symptoms:

• Periorbital and facial edema (more prominent in the morning)
• Decreased urinary output
• Cloudy, smoky, and brown-colored urine
• Anorexia
• Pallor, irritability and lethargy


• Headaches, abdominal or flank pain, dysuria
• Hypertension
• Proteinuria
• Azotemia
• Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels are increased
• Antistreptolysin O titer is increase

Nursing Intervention:

1. Monitor vital signs, weight, intake and output, and observe characteristic of urine
2. Limit activity and provide safety
3. In uncomplicated disease, a regular diet is permitted but sodium is restricted
4. For child with hypertension or edema, moderate sodium restriction is prescribed
5. During oliguria period, foods high in potassium are restricted
6. If child has severe azotemia, protein restricted is prescribed
7. Observe the complication of glumerulonephritis
8. Administer diuretics, antihypertensives, and antibiotics as prescribed
9. Initiate seizure precaution and administer anticonvulsant as prescribed
10. Instruct parent to report signs of bloody urine, headache, or edema
11. Inform parent that child needs to obtain treatment for infection