CRRT: A Comprehensive Guide to Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy159


Introduction

Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is a life-saving treatment for patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). It is a form of dialysis that involves continuously removing waste products and excess fluid from the blood. CRRT is typically used when traditional hemodialysis is not effective or when the patient is hemodynamically unstable.

Types of CRRT

There are two main types of CRRT: continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) and continuous venovenous hemodialysis (CVVHD). CVVH uses a semipermeable membrane to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. CVVHD uses a dialysis solution to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.

Indications for CRRT

CRRT is indicated for patients with AKI or ESRD who have fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, or metabolic acidosis. CRRT can also be used to remove toxins from the blood in patients with poisoning or drug overdose.

Benefits of CRRT

CRRT has several benefits over traditional hemodialysis. CRRT is more gentle on the body, as it does not require large volumes of fluid to be removed from the blood. CRRT can also be used to remove larger molecules from the blood, which can be important in patients with poisoning or drug overdose.

Risks of CRRT

CRRT is generally a safe procedure, but there are some risks associated with it. These risks include bleeding, infection, and electrolyte imbalances. CRRT can also be expensive and time-consuming.

Nursing Care of Patients Undergoing CRRT

Nurses play a vital role in the care of patients undergoing CRRT. Nurses are responsible for monitoring the patient's vital signs, fluid balance, and electrolyte levels. Nurses also need to be able to troubleshoot any problems that may occur with the CRRT machine.

Conclusion

CRRT is a life-saving treatment for patients with AKI or ESRD. CRRT is more gentle on the body than traditional hemodialysis and can be used to remove larger molecules from the blood. However, CRRT is also more expensive and time-consuming than traditional hemodialysis. Nurses play a vital role in the care of patients undergoing CRRT.

2025-01-11


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