Sick day rules

Question 1

What is AKI

Answer 1

Sudden or recent reduction in kidney function.

Question 2

What causes AKI

Answer 2

• Dehydration
• Illness or infections
• Major surgery and trauma
• Side effect of meds
• Drainage system of kidneys or ureters or bladder is blocker

Question 3

Who is at risk of AKI

Answer 3

Elderly and patients with CKD are at risk of AKI due to their reduced kidney function

Patients with heart or liver failure are also at higher risk

Question 4

Symptoms of AKI

Answer 4

_ changes in urine output

• nausea and vomiting
• abdominal pains and feeling generally unwell
• dehydration with thirst
• later symptoms can inc. confusion and drowsiness

Question 5

How is AKI diagnosed

Answer 5

• measure creatinine, this is produced by body muscles and is removed by the kidneys
• creatinine levels will rise if there is a reduction in kidney fuction

Question 6

Sick day rules

Answer 6

1. Keep your water/fluid intake up to make sure you have enough fluids in your body. As a general rule, drink plenty until your illness passes
2. Avoid drinking alcohol
3. Speak to your GP if you have passed less urine than normal or if you have diarrhoea or continuous vomiting
4. Let pharmacist know you had AKI in the past when buying any OTC
5. Stop following medications during sick day:
   - ACE inhibitors
   - ARBs
   - NSAIDs
   - Diuretics
   - Metformin