Organizational and financial aspects of a continuous renal replacement therapy program

Critically ill patients who develop severe acute kidney injury in the intensive care unit often require treatment with renal replacement therapies (RRTs). This complication is associated with severe morbidity and mortality and high costs, both during hospitalization and postdischarge. This article discusses the operational requirements to develop and conduct a RRT program, as well as the financial implications of this complex form of patient care. The management of these programs must occur in a context where a clear organizational and educational framework and a multidisciplinary team ensures safety, effectiveness, cost-control, and a clear quality control framework.