How fast
Within 1–2 hours
Add to your jobs list; go now if a red flag applies.
Go now if
- Low BP or tachycardic
- Rising creatinine or K⁺ over 6
- Anuric (catheter not draining at all)
Ask on the phone
- How much over how many hours? Catheterised?
- Fluid balance, oral intake, IV fluids?
- Latest creatinine and K⁺?
Every bleep: the basics
- Name, ward, bed, age, why they're in hospital.
- Full set of obs and the NEWS2 score — and what it was before.
- Resuscitation status (DNACPR / ReSPECT) and ceiling of care.
Ask the nurse to start
- Flush or check the catheter; bladder scan if not catheterised.
- Hourly urine output chart; U&E if not done today.
Call your senior if
- Shocked, AKI stage 3, or K⁺ 6.5 or more.
When you get there
Sources (1)
For healthcare professionals, as an aid to clinical judgement — not a substitute for it. Follow your local policy and ask a senior when in doubt.