What is a potential consequence of administering NSAIDs to patients with renal impairment?

Administering NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to patients with renal impairment can lead to exacerbation of renal dysfunction due to their effects on renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). NSAIDs inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are compounds that play a critical role in maintaining adequate blood flow to the kidneys, particularly when renal perfusion is compromised. In patients with existing renal impairment, the inhibition of these protective prostaglandins can lead to a further decrease in blood flow to the kidneys, resulting in worsened kidney function.

This is particularly concerning in conditions such as acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease, where the kidneys already struggle with filtering waste effectively. Thus, the administration of NSAIDs can cause retention of sodium and water, increase blood pressure, and lead to worsening fluid overload.

Improved renal function, decreased blood pressure, and increased urine output are not consequences of NSAID use in renal impairment and would not occur in this clinical context. Therefore, exacerbation of renal dysfunction is the most appropriate and accurate consequence of using NSAIDs in these patients.