Acute kidney injury in the critical care setting

Abstract

Previously known as acute renal failure, Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a syndrome which refers to the rapid deterioration of renal function in both kidneys which can occur over a period of hours or days, impairing the kidneys’ ability to maintain fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance (Ostermann and Joannidis, 2016). This article describes the pathophysiology, aetiology and management of Acute Kidney Injury in acutely ill patients cared for within critical care settings, in order to enhance nursing knowledge and understanding of the underlying pathophysiological processes and specific critical care management strategies required.