AKI

Question 1

Define AKI?

Answer 1

An acute decrease in kidney function which is usually reversible.

Urinary Output:
Less than 0.5ml/kg/hr 6 hours

OR

Creatinine
25 umol/l increase within 48hrs or greater than 150% of normal value

Question 2

What are the presenting features of AKI in children?

Answer 2

Physically looks dry
Dry mucosal surfaces
Sunken fontanelle
Sunken eyes
Skin tugor

Reduced UO

Symptoms related to the cause of AKI

Question 3

What are the most common causes of AKI in children?

Answer 3

Pre-renal causes are the most common
AKA hypovolaemia:
-dehydration
-burns
-sepsis
-gastroenteritis
-haemorrhage
-nephrotic syndrome
-circulatory failure

Question 4

How should AKI be treated?

Answer 4

Correct the cause, in children usually means rehydrating (Pre-renal cause).

Dialysis should be used in the following situations:
• Hyperkalaemia
• Severe hypo/hypernatraemia
• Pulmonary oedema 
• Severe acidosis
• Multisystem failure