The management of acute renal failure

Acute renal failure is a commonly encountered condition in the hospital setting. In many cases accurate history-taking, careful examination of the patient and meticulous monitoring of volume balance may reverse this process. However, acute renal failure presents a unique set of metabolic derangements which, if untreated, will result in death. We outline the initial management of acute renal failure as well as the specific treatments that may be required. Some consideration is also given to the use of renal replacement therapies.