Cardiorenal Syndromes: Evaluation and Management.

Cardiorenal syndromes (CRS) describe disorders effecting critically ill and hospitalized patients with concurrent heart and kidney dysfunction. The presence of CRS is associated with a poor prognosis. This article is a review of the epidemiology, pathology, and evidence-based evaluation and management strategies for cardiorenal syndromes. All nurses should understand the significance that chronic heart and kidney disease has upon a patient's risk for CRS. Registered and advanced practice nurses should maintain the knowledge and skills of understanding the pathology of CRS to improve the evaluation and management of patients who present with CRS.