This section of the document outlines the purpose and scope of the Clinical Practice Guideline. It emphasizes that the guidelines are based on systematic literature searches conducted in January 2011, with additional evidence added through February 2012. The guidelines aim to provide information and assist in decision-making but do not define a standard of care. They should not be interpreted as prescribing an exclusive course of management, and variations in practice are appropriate when considering individual patient needs, available resources, and institutional limitations. Health-care professionals are responsible for evaluating the appropriateness of applying these recommendations in specific clinical situations. The second section discusses the disclosure process for conflicts of interest. KDIGO works to avoid conflicts of interest arising from outside relationships or personal, professional, or business interests of its Work Group members. All members must complete and submit a disclosure form, and the document is updated annually. The full disclosure information is published at the end of the document and is kept on file at the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), Managing Agent for KDIGO. The document also includes copyright and liability information, stating that single photocopies may be made for personal use, and special rates are available for educational institutions for non-profit educational use. Reproduction, amendment, or transmission of any part of the publication is prohibited without explicit written permission from KDIGO. KDIGO, Kidney International Supplements, NKF, and the authors, contributors, or editors assume no liability for any injury or damage resulting from the use of the material.This section of the document outlines the purpose and scope of the Clinical Practice Guideline. It emphasizes that the guidelines are based on systematic literature searches conducted in January 2011, with additional evidence added through February 2012. The guidelines aim to provide information and assist in decision-making but do not define a standard of care. They should not be interpreted as prescribing an exclusive course of management, and variations in practice are appropriate when considering individual patient needs, available resources, and institutional limitations. Health-care professionals are responsible for evaluating the appropriateness of applying these recommendations in specific clinical situations. The second section discusses the disclosure process for conflicts of interest. KDIGO works to avoid conflicts of interest arising from outside relationships or personal, professional, or business interests of its Work Group members. All members must complete and submit a disclosure form, and the document is updated annually. The full disclosure information is published at the end of the document and is kept on file at the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), Managing Agent for KDIGO. The document also includes copyright and liability information, stating that single photocopies may be made for personal use, and special rates are available for educational institutions for non-profit educational use. Reproduction, amendment, or transmission of any part of the publication is prohibited without explicit written permission from KDIGO. KDIGO, Kidney International Supplements, NKF, and the authors, contributors, or editors assume no liability for any injury or damage resulting from the use of the material.