Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What common effect does exposure to a nephrotoxin have on the body?

1. Damage to the liver

2. Impairment of vision

3. Kidney damage

4. Respiratory issues

The correct answer is: Kidney damage

Exposure to a nephrotoxin primarily affects the kidneys, leading to various types of kidney damage. Nephrotoxins are substances that are harmful to the kidneys, and their exposure can lead to acute or chronic kidney injury, impairment of kidney function, and in severe cases, renal failure. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste from the blood, regulating fluid balance, and maintaining electrolyte levels. When damaged by nephrotoxic agents, these functions can be compromised, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body, which can have systemic effects. In contrast, the other options refer to harm caused by different types of toxins or conditions. Damage to the liver is related to hepatotoxins, impairment of vision can be associated with neurotoxins or other specific agents, and respiratory issues are typically a consequence of inhaled toxins or irritants affecting the lungs and airways rather than a direct effect of nephrotoxins. Therefore, C accurately identifies the specific physiological impact of exposure to nephrotoxins.