Nursing Resources Crucial in Reducing Acute Kidney Injury Mortality

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing has revealed that nurse staffing and education play a significant role in reducing 30-day mortality among patients hospitalized with acute kidney injury (AKI). The study, published in Research in Nursing & Health, analyzed data from 24,368 Medicare beneficiaries aged 18-99 years with a primary diagnosis of AKI hospitalized in 155 hospitals in New York and Illinois in 2021. The findings highlight the importance of prioritizing nursing resources to enhance AKI outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that acute kidney injury affects approximately 20% of hospitalized patients and is associated with higher mortality, extended hospital stay, and increased costs.
  • The research concluded that increased nurse staffing and education can reduce 30-day mortality among patients hospitalized with AKI.
  • The 30-day mortality rate was 10.5% among the study participants, with each additional patient per RN increasing the odds of 30-day mortality by 7% (OR = 1.07, 95% CI [1.01-1.13], p = 0.025).
  • The study identified that hospitals should prioritize investing in nursing resources to enhance AKI outcomes, including nurse staffing and education.
  • The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Research in Nursing & Health, a journal published by Wiley.

Statistics:

  • 20% of hospitalized patients experience acute kidney injury (AKI).
  • The 30-day mortality rate was 10.5% among the study participants.
  • Each additional patient per RN increased the odds of 30-day mortality by 7% (OR = 1.07, 95% CI [1.01-1.13], p = 0.025).
  • 24,368 Medicare beneficiaries aged 18-99 years were included in the study.
  • The study was conducted in 155 hospitals in New York and Illinois.
  • The research was supported by the National Institute of Nursing Research.

Sources:

  • The Impact of Nurse Staffing and Education on 30-Day Mortality Among Patients Hospitalized for Acute Kidney Injury. Research in Nursing & Health, 2025.
  • NewsRx. Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing Release New Data on Acute Kidney Injury (The Impact of Nurse Staffing and Education on 30-Day Mortality Among Patients Hospitalized for Acute Kidney Injury). Managed Care Weekly Digest. October 13, 2025; p 98.