Acute kidney injury assessment (adult UK pathway)
A source-linked educational visual of adult acute kidney injury recognition, cause assessment, obstruction and renal escalation based on NICE NG148.
Important safety note
This visual algorithm is an educational representation of published UK clinical guidance and is not a substitute for clinical judgement, local protocols, senior/specialist advice, or the original guideline. Verify current guidance before clinical use.
Scope and source
- Scope
- Adults with suspected or confirmed acute kidney injury in UK emergency and acute-care services.
- Jurisdiction
- UK
- Primary guidance
- NICE NG148: Acute kidney injury: prevention, detection and management
- Guidance last updated
- 2024-10-02
- Clinical reference reviewed
- 2026-09-08
- Review due
- 2027-03-08
Interactive clinical algorithm
This source-backed visual algorithm is available in the interactive page experience. Open the original guidance and the node notes before clinical use.
How to read this visual
- Read across the columns for the phases of the pathway; the swimlanes are who acts — Emergency and acute care team, Tests and imaging, Nephrology and urology.
- Bold marks the dose, threshold or time limit that decides the next step; the rest of a label is context.
- Confirm AKI from creatinine change or urine output, then assess reversible causes and complications together.
- Open notes for ultrasound timing, nephrology discussion and immediate renal-replacement-therapy triggers.
Clinical notes
- Do not use a fixed fluid prescription; tailor treatment to volume status and the underlying illness.
- Use local medication, contrast, urology and dialysis protocols.
Sources
- NICE NG148: Acute kidney injury (NICE; 2024-10-02)
Open an editable reference copy
Create a personal educational copy. Verify the original guidance before clinical use.