Acute renal failure cannot always be prevented. One way to prevent it is to avoid situations that lead to a drop in blood flow to the kidneys. Also, drugs that can damage the kidneys should be avoided. Persons with pre-existing kidney disease need to be very careful to avoid certain drugs that are known to affect kidney function. Acute renal failure is diagnosed based on blood tests and urine studies.
Blood tests show elevated levels of substances known as blood urea nitrogen and creatinine .
Levels of electrolytes, such as potassium, are also high. Ultrasound imaging of the kidneys can also help pinpoint the cause of the disorder. Most cases of acute renal failure will resolve with supportive therapy. This disease does not necessarily place the person at risk for long-term kidney damage. However, a person who has underlying kidney disease may not recover adequate kidney function.