You have been given this leaflet because you have had an acute
kidney injury during your admission to hospital.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
AKI occurs when the kidneys stop working properly. It is NOT the result of a physical blow to the body as the name may suggest.
The effects of AKI can range from minor loss of kidney function to complete kidney failure. As a result, we take AKI very seriously.
It is essential the AKI is detected early, as the earlier the AKI is picked up the better the chance of the kidneys fully recovering.
AKI is not the same as chronic kidney disease (CKD). In CKD the reduction in kidney function is longer term.
Most people have two kidneys that lie on either side of the backbone just below the ribs. The kidneys produce urine which supports good
health by removing waste products which may be harmful to the body. The kidneys help us to stay hydrated by adjusting the amount
of water that we have in our bodies.
There are many causes of AKI, with the most common being:
• Dehydration (from not drinking enough, or excessive vomiting and/or diarrhoea)
• Infection
• Medications
• Blockage of one or both tubes leading from the kidneys to the bladder.
• Some people are more at risk of developing an AKI, including those with underlying kidney disease, heart failure, diabetes, and the elderly.
A blood test measuring creatinine, which is produced by the muscles and removed by the kidneys is measured. If there is a reduction in
kidney function the creatinine levels will increase.
The treatment depends on the underlying cause. Some people require intravenous fluids if they are dehydrated.
Medications may need to be reviewed during your hospital stay as some drugs may be harmful to the kidneys. If your medications are
reduced or stopped whilst your kidneys are recovering, these may need further review before discharge from hospital or by your GP.
Kidney function can be monitored by measuring the volume of urine output, this may require a catheter; a small tube that is put into the
bladder to measure this.
Blood tests, chest x-rays and ECGs may be done to detect any complications from the AKI.
AKI is usually treated successfully, and regular blood tests should help your doctor know if your kidney function is returning to normal.
In some patients the kidney does not fully recover, and in a small minority there is significant damage to the kidneys that requires
further specialist treatment.
Whilst in hospital your team will keep you informed of your progress, and once discharged all information from your stay will be sent to your GP.
It is essential that you maintain a healthy diet and monitor fluid intake to prevent waste products building up, control blood pressure and
keep salts in balance. If you become unwell ensure that you keep your fluid/water intake up and avoid alcohol.
You should contact your GP urgently if you:
1. Have severe (ongoing) vomiting and/or diarrhoea, especially if you are on blood pressure medications.
2. Are unable to keep fluids down.
3. Notice a reduction in the amount of urine that you are passing.
In some cases, your GP or Pharmacist may tell you to stop
certain medications while you are unwell, such as:
1. Blood pressure tablets
2. Water tablets
3. Certain anti-inflammatory drugs or painkillers.
Do not stop taking prescribed medications without medical advice.
Your GP may request a blood test to ensure that your kidneys are working properly. Occasionally it may be necessary for you to come
to hospital for treatment of your AKI if it is not getting better.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding an AKI, please contact your GP.
www.thinkkidneys.nhs.uk/
www.nhs.uk/conditions/acute-kidney-injury/
www.kidneycareuk.org/about-kidney-health/conditions/acute-kidney-injury-aki/
Once discharged from hospital the patient should discuss any concerns with their GP or seek advice from 111. If they feel particularly unwell they should attend ED or call 999 as appropriate.
