• A full history and examination are essential in acute renal failure
• Look especially for toxic drugs and evidence of volume depletion
• Always exclude obstruction by ultrasound scanning
• Always dipstick and microscope the urine for signs of intrinsic renal disease
• Be vigilant for the complications of hyperkalemia, acidosis and pulmonary edema
• Treatment with renal replacement therapy should be initiated to prevent these complications whenever possible
• Hemodialysis or hemofiltration are generally used for acute renal failure.

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C. A. O'Callaghan 2004