Assessing Kidney Knowledge in Hospitalized Patients
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is an increasingly common complication of hospitalization and among the fastest growing kidney diseases. In addition to a strong association with in-hospital mortality, AKI complicates the course of other chronic conditions and is a major risk factor for long-term loss of kidney function. Experimental data indicate the kidneys are especially vulnerable to further injury during recovery, a period that can last several months. In addition to having to recover from both AKI and the accompanying underlying illness, the time following AKI is one where patients must assume greater responsibility for their own care. A critical element for executing long-term treatment plans including risk reduction strategies is enhancing patient’s awareness of his/her own disease process. The goal of this study is to examine the baseline perceived and actual knowledge of patients who have experienced a significant episode of AKI at the time of hospital discharge, in the context of overall knowledge about kidney health. Knowledge gained will facilitate the development of tailored educational interventions to empower patients to engage in their own kidney care which we will examine in future studies for its ability to improve patient-centered outcomes.