Acute kidney failure (ARF), also known as acute kidney injury (AKI), is the sudden loss of kidney function; the inability of the kidneys to perform its functions of filtering waste from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. This sudden loss of function occurs within less. Most patients suffering from AKI are already hospitalized or may be in intensive care for other medical conditions, although some patients have no signs or symptoms, but the diagnosis is made based on laboratory results performed for other medical reasons . In most cases, kidney function can return to normal if the cause of kidney failure is identified and treated. ARF is classified into the following three categories depending on the causative factors: • Prerenal ARF results from a rapid decrease in blood pressure or reduced blood flow to the kidneys which may be caused by injury, disease, severe allergic reactions, acute dehydration or certain medications that include aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. • Intrarenal ARF results from damage to the kidneys themselves due to particular conditions, diseases or agents including infection, venous and/or arterial blood clots near the kidneys, cholesterol deposits that impede blood flow, glomerulonephritis, toxins such as alcohol and drugs or various medications including those used for chemotherapy, antibiotics, dyes used in contrast studies, and zoledronic acid, prescribed to treat osteoporosis and high blood calcium levels. • Postrenal ARF results from a sudden blockage of the ureters, resulting in the inability to eliminate urine from the body. Uropathy can occur with certain cancers such as prostate ... middle of paper ... blood leaves the body where it passes through a dialyzer which cleans and filters the blood which is then pumped back into the body. This process helps remove toxins, fluids, and potassium while the kidneys are recovering. In severe cases, a severely damaged kidney may require lifelong dialysis. Those who suffer from chronic kidney disease due to permanent damage to a kidney may require a kidney transplant. The short-term nursing goal would be to establish and maintain normal fluid and electrolyte levels, restoring normal renal function. Additionally, patient comfort, both physical and mental, must be addressed and supported. Long-term nursing goals would be to educate the patient and family regarding possible dietary changes and reduced activity levels, if necessary, so that a healthy lifestyle can prevent further events..