Abstract

Introduction

Neonatal Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an underestimated morbidity in the neonatal intensive care unit (ICU). However, there is a paucity of information about risk factors, outcomes, and possible preventive measures to limit its occurrence.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of neonatal AKI in a neonatal ICU. Data obtained from this study will help to better understand current local practices and investigate possible preventive strategies.

Materials and methods

Charts from January 2011 to December 2018 were reviewed. Neonates less than 2 weeks old who depended on intravenous fluid as a nutrition source for at least two days were included.

Results

Overall, the eight-year prevalence of neonatal AKI in the neonatal ICU was 19.6%, and severity was distributed as follows: stage 1 (46.2%), stage 2 (26.5%), and stage 3 (27.3%). Caffeine administration before 29 weeks’ gestational age significantly decreased the incidence of neonatal AKI. The incidence of neonatal AKI was independently associated with death (odds ratios (OR) = 7.11, P < 0.001) and extended length of hospital stay (OR = 2.47, P < 0.001). In the multivariate regression model, vancomycin (AOR = 1.637, P < 0.004), loop diuretics (AOR = 2.203, P < 0.001), intraventricular hemorrhage (AOR = 2.605, P < 0.001), surgical intervention (AOR = 1.566, P < 0.008), mechanical ventilation (AOR = 1.463, P < 0.015), and dopamine administration (AOR = 2.399, P < 0.001) were independently associated with neonatal AKI.

Conclusion

Neonatal AKI occurred in one-fifth of the study population in a neonatal ICU. Outcomes can be improved by identifying high-risk infants and cautiously monitoring kidney function.