Nephrology in the Academic Intensive Care Unit: A Qualitative Study of Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Fluid Management for Critically Ill Patients with Acute Kidney Injury Receiving Kidney Replacement Therapy: An International Survey

BACKGROUND

In critically ill patients receiving KRT, high ultrafiltration rates and persistent fluid accumulation are associated with adverse outcomes. The purpose of this international survey was to evaluate current practices and evidence gaps related to fluid removal with KRT in critically ill patients.

METHODS

This was a multinational, web-based survey distributed by seven networks comprising nephrologists and intensivists. Physicians involved in the care of critically ill patients were invited to complete a 39-question survey about fluid management practices on KRT. The survey was distributed from September 2021 to December 2021.

RESULTS

There were 757 respondents from 96 countries (response rate of 65%). Most respondents practiced adult medicine (89%) and worked in an academic center (69%). The majority (91%) reported aiming for a 0.5- to 2-L negative fluid balance per day when fluid removal is indicated, although there was important variability in what respondents considered a safe maximal target. Intensivists were more likely than nephrologists to use adjunct volume status assessment methods ( i.e. , ultrasound, hemodynamic markers, and intra-abdominal pressure), while nephrologists were more likely to deploy cointerventions aimed at improving tolerance to fluid removal ( i.e. , osmotic agents and low-temperature dialysate). There was a broad consensus that rapid decongestion should be prioritized when fluid accumulation is present, but the prevention of hypotension was also reported as a competing priority. A majority (77%) agreed that performing trials that compare fluid management strategies would be ethical and clinically relevant.

CONCLUSIONS

We have identified multiple areas of variability in current practice of fluid management for patients receiving KRT. Most nephrologists and intensivists agreed that several knowledge gaps related to fluid removal strategies should be investigated in future randomized controlled trials.

The Workforce in Critical Care Nephrology: Challenges and Opportunities

The substantial burden of acute kidney injury and end-stage kidney disease among patients with critical illness highlights the importance and need for a specialized nephrologist in the intensive care unit. The last decade has seen a growing interest in a career focused on critical care nephrology. However, the scope of practice and job satisfaction of those who completed dual training in nephrology and critical care are largely unknown. This article discusses the current practice landscape of critical care nephrology and describes the educational tracks available to pursue this pathway and considerations to enhance the future of this field.