Care of the chronic dialysis patient in the intensive care unit: a state-of-the-art review.

Abstract

Chronic dialysis patients account for a high proportion of intensive care unit admissions. The prevalent dialysis population is growing worldwide, accompanied by increasing medical complexity and comorbidities. Critical care physicians must be familiar with the unique clinical characteristics of this patient group. There is relatively little evidence specifically concerning the assessment and treatment of critically unwell individuals on long-term dialysis. This narrative review explores the approach to the management of chronic dialysis patients in the intensive care unit.