Prevalence and Mortality Rates of Acute Kidney Injury among Critically Ill Patients: A Retrospective Study

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Critical Care Medicine
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a critical complication in intensive care units.
• Nonsurgical critically ill patients face significant challenges with AKI prevalence and outcomes.
• Understanding AKI epidemiology in specific regions like Jordan is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of AKI in nonsurgical critically ill patients at Jordan University Hospital.
• To identify risk factors associated with AKI development and mortality.
• To analyze the impact of AKI on mortality rates in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 457 nonsurgical critically ill patients admitted to the MICU from January to June 2021.
• Consecutive sampling method used for patient selection.
• Statistical analysis including adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and confidence intervals (CI) to assess risk factors and mortality.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of AKI was 42.8% (196 patients).
• Pulmonary diseases and sepsis were the leading causes for admission among AKI patients.
• Older age, diuretic use, mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor use were associated with higher mortality; statin use was associated with reduced mortality.
• AKI was independently associated with a 2.44-fold increased mortality risk (AOR: 2.44; 95% CI: 1.07-5.56; p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of AKI in this Jordanian MICU cohort is higher than previously reported.
• Several factors, including older age and specific medical interventions, significantly impact AKI mortality.
• Further research into AKI contributing factors in developing countries and adherence to global preventive strategies are recommended.