Continuous venous hemodiafiltration with trisodium citrate anticoagulation in cardiac surgery patients

Despite advances in perioperative organ protection during cardiovascular surgery, acute renal failure remains a serious complication. The purpose of this clinical article is to describe the role of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in proactive maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance and treatment of acute renal failure in patients following cardiovascular surgery. Implications for nursing practice, education, and future research will be delineated using a case study of a patient who required mechanical circulatory support and CRRT. The complexity of the patient's care was compounded by the need to alter conventional anticoagulation therapy to trisodium citrate.