Which term is not a recognized stage of AKI?

Which term is not a recognized stage of AKI?

• A. Initiation
• B. Oliguric
• C. Diuresis
• D. Maintenance

Answer: (D)

AKI progresses through four recognized phases: initiation, oliguric, diuresis, and recovery. Understanding this sequence helps guide fluid management, electrolyte correction, and renal recovery expectations. In the initiation phase, injury begins and kidney function starts to deteriorate, with creatinine rising and urine output may still be near normal. The oliguric phase features markedly reduced urine output and fluid/electrolyte imbalances, often with metabolic acidosis. The diuresis phase follows, as urine output increases again while tubular function recovers, though this stage can risk dehydration and electrolyte wasting. Finally, the recovery phase involves gradual restoration of kidney function toward baseline over days to weeks. Maintenance, however, is not part of these AKI stages, so it isn’t a recognized phase of AKI progression.

AKI progresses through four recognized phases: initiation, oliguric, diuresis, and recovery. Understanding this sequence helps guide fluid management, electrolyte correction, and renal recovery expectations. In the initiation phase, injury begins and kidney function starts to deteriorate, with creatinine rising and urine output may still be near normal. The oliguric phase features markedly reduced urine output and fluid/electrolyte imbalances, often with metabolic acidosis. The diuresis phase follows, as urine output increases again while tubular function recovers, though this stage can risk dehydration and electrolyte wasting. Finally, the recovery phase involves gradual restoration of kidney function toward baseline over days to weeks. Maintenance, however, is not part of these AKI stages, so it isn’t a recognized phase of AKI progression.