Final answer:
Doctors managing acute renal failure (ARF) may order fluid management, medication for electrolyte balance, and renal replacement therapy, with diagnosis involving blood tests, ultrasounds, and potentially a biopsy.
Step-by-step explanation:
For acute renal failure (ARF), which is a rapid loss of kidney function, doctors may anticipate several types of orders to address complications. These orders depend on the specific cause and symptoms but can include fluid management to address dehydration or hypovolemia, medications to manage electrolyte imbalances and body fluid disturbances, and potentially renal replacement therapy (RRT) if the ARF is severe. In cases where ARF occurs on top of chronic kidney disease (CKD), known as acute-on-chronic renal failure (AoCRF), the aim is to stabilize the patient and return them to their baseline renal function.
Diagnosis of ARF involves blood tests to measure serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels, ultrasound to check for obstruction, and possibly a kidney biopsy. In managing ARF, it is essential to determine whether the causes are pre-renal, such as blood loss or dehydration; renal, which involves direct damage to the kidneys; or post-renal, which might include blockages due to conditions like kidney stones or tumors.