ICU nephrology: The implications of cardiovascular alterations in the acutely ill

Abstract

Cardiovascular alterations are common in critically ill patients and can have important implications for multiple organ systems, including the kidney. Restoring and maintaining adequate hemodynamic status in such patients is crucial to ensure sufficient oxygen availability to tissues and organs so that they can function optimally. In this text, we will return to the basic physiology of cardiac output and its components so that we can better understand the effects of cardiovascular alterations in critically ill patients, and how best to treat them. © 2012 International Society of Nephrology.