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A recent study published in Scientific Reports by Indian researchers has revealed critical insights into hospital-acquired acute kidney injury (HAAKI), a significant health issue contributing to high morbidity and mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
The research analyzed 273 ICU patients and found that 16.11% developed acute kidney injury (AKI) during their hospital stay. AKI, which typically manifests after 48 hours in the ICU, was strongly associated with poor clinical outcomes.
Key Findings
The study identified several critical risk factors for AKI, including:
- Low serum chloride levels
- Use of colistin (an antibiotic)
- Invasive mechanical ventilation and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP)
- Fluid balance irregularities
The mean age of patients was 45.8 years, with diabetes and hypertension being common comorbidities.
Impact on Patient Outcomes
Patients diagnosed with AKI experienced significantly worse outcomes compared to those without the condition:
- Mortality rate: 43.18% for AKI patients, compared to 14.41% for non-AKI patients.
- Length of ICU stay: 8 days for AKI patients, versus 5 days for non-AKI patients.
- Renal replacement therapy (RRT): 15.9% of AKI patients required RRT during their ICU stay.
A six-month follow-up revealed a 23% mortality rate among AKI survivors, although none required ongoing RRT at that time.
Implications for Care
The findings underscore the need for vigilant monitoring of ICU patients, particularly in managing serum chloride levels, fluid balance, and ventilation strategies. Early identification and intervention for patients at risk of AKI could potentially reduce mortality rates and improve outcomes.
Disclaimer
This article summarizes findings from a scientific study and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Source: Scientific Reports
