Acute kidney injury
- DOI:
- 10.1093/med/9780198793458.003.0005
Assessing and supporting kidney function is an integral aspect of acute care. AKI (acute kidney injury) may cause sudden, life-threatening biochemical disturbances and hence the early identification, escalation to treatment and management of AKI is an important focus in the management of acutely ill patients. This chapter reviews kidney anatomy and physiology followed by the nursing care involved in assessing and managing abnormal kidney function. The focus is on relevance and applicability to clinical practice and understanding of kidney function as protective measures and early detection of anomalies greatly reduces the risk of acute kidney injury. Common renal pathologies are explored and the role of renal replacement therapies is discussed.
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