Kidney or abdominal ultrasound is usually the best test, but abdominal X-ray , abdominal CT scan , or abdominal MRI may also reveal the cause of the acute renal failure. Kidney size is usually normal or slightly large. A clean catch urine specimen will indicate if the cause is infection within the urinary tract. Additionally, treatment focuses on preventing the excess accumulation of fluids and wastes, while allowing the kidneys to heal. The kidneys may gradually resume function.
Hospitalization is required for treatment and monitoring.
Fluid intake may be severely restricted to an amount equal to the volume of urine produced. Salt intake is usually also curtailed. Dietary intake of substances that are normally excreted by the kidney may be restricted to minimize their build up in the body. Specific dietary modifications will include following a diet plan that is high in carbohydrates , low in protein , sodium, and potassium intake. Antibiotics may be used to treat or prevent infection.