Preventing Acute Kidney Injury

Abstract

Epidemiologic studies applying the acute kidney injury (AKI) classification system have confirmed the increasing incidence of AKI in different settings and its association with adverse outcomes. AKI is now a recognized important risk factor for new-onset chronic kidney disease, determining acceleration in progression to end-stage renal disease, leading to poor quality of life, disability, and long-term costs. AKI has been associated with high mortalities; however, it is likely that a significant number of deaths associated with AKI could be avoided. This article reviews the key aspects of the 0by25 initiative and its application in critically ill patients.

Keywords: Acute kidney injury; Epidemiology; Prevention.