What are the typical indications for dialysis in critically ill patients?

Dialysis is a crucial intervention for critically ill patients, particularly in the presence of acute kidney injury and severe electrolyte imbalances. In these situations, the kidneys are unable to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which can lead to a buildup of toxins and harmful substances. For instance, acute kidney injury (AKI) can occur due to various causes, including trauma, medication toxicity, or severe infections. When AKI is accompanied by severe electrolyte imbalances, such as hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) or hyperphosphatemia (high phosphate levels), dialysis becomes essential for restoring balance and preventing life-threatening complications.

Dialysis effectively removes waste products from the blood, helps manage fluid overload, and normalizes electrolyte levels, providing critical care support in the intensive care setting. This makes it a vital treatment for patients who cannot maintain metabolic stability through conventional means.

In contrast, while chronic lung disease, heart failure, and sepsis can be serious conditions that may require management in an ICU, they are not direct indications for dialysis unless there are associated renal complications or severe metabolic disturbances that warrant renal replacement therapy.