Identification and Management of Lupus Nephritis: An Overview

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of organs systems in the body. Active SLE can put a patient at risk for life-threatening complications such as lupus nephritis (LN), an inflammation of the kidneys that can cause permanent, irreversible organ damage. LN can mimic other illnesses, and medical management may be challenging. The purpose of this article is to aid nurse practitioners in identifying and managing LN as a complication of SLE to provide safe and quality care to patients.