Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

The identification of dehydration, medications, infections, and obstruction as common causes of acute kidney injury (AKI) is grounded in a solid understanding of kidney function and pathophysiology.

Dehydration can lead to reduced blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste effectively, which can result in AKI. Medications, especially certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics like aminoglycosides, and diuretics, can adversely affect kidney function either through direct toxicity or by altering vascular dynamics in the kidneys.

Infections, particularly those leading to sepsis, can trigger systemic inflammation and compromise renal perfusion, causing AKI. Furthermore, obstructions in the urinary tract, such as from kidney stones or tumors, can result in post-renal AKI by impeding urine flow and leading to backpressure that damages renal tissues.

Overall, understanding these common causes helps in early recognition and intervention strategies critical for managing acute kidney injury effectively.