EP 500 Evaluating the Experience of the General Surgical Team in Acute Kidney Injury Management

Aims

To identify areas for development to improve acute kidney injury (AKI) management following our most recent audit, which demonstrated less than 36% compliance.

To assess the understanding of, and confidence in, AKI management among all members of the general surgical team.

Method

A 26-question questionnaire was distributed to all doctors within the surgical team. It collected data on respondents’ job titles, self-reported confidence in managing AKI, and perceptions of current AKI management practices using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = Not confident, 5 = Very confident), as well as preferred educational methods. The questionnaire was completed in December 2025. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel.

Results

25/49 (51%) responded from foundation year one to registrar.

The modal confidence score for managing AKI was 3, while confidence in undertaking fluid balance and medication reviews were higher at 4. 16/25 (64%) felt that patients with AKI do not consistently receive a senior review within 12 hours. 4/25 (16%) believed that urine dipstick testing is routinely completed within 24 hours.

15/25 (60%) would like further education on AKI. 17/25 (68%) would prefer teaching to be delivered virtually. 7/25 (28%) would prefer a 50-60 minute session. 17/25 (68%) would be willing to have this outside of normal hours. 12/25 (48%) would prefer group-based teaching.

Conclusion

Most respondents reported confidence in managing AKI, highlighting a mismatch between perceived ability and audit outcomes. This indicates a need to strengthen communication and reinforce consistent AKI management across the general surgical team.