tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19753740822484090062012-01-12T16:16:39.784ZCritical Care BulletinA weekly current awareness service for NHS Critical Care staff, produced by the Staff Library service at East Cheshire NHS Trust.The Librarynoreply@blogger.comBlogger8771100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-8389364036161957232012-01-12T16:13:00.002Z2012-01-12T16:16:39.800ZPrevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia or ventilator-associated complicationsPrevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia or ventilator-associated compliations: A worthy, yet challenging goal. Critical care medicine, Jan 2012, Vol. 40(1), p.271-277.Kollef, M.H.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2012/01000/Prevention_of_ventilator_associated_pneumonia_or.40.aspxVentilator-associated pneumonia is a difficult diagnosis to establish in the critically ill patient The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-40360860034555452112012-01-12T16:06:00.002Z2012-01-12T16:11:55.058ZThe role of the medical emergency team in end-of-life careThe role of the medical emergency team in end-of-life care: A multicenter, prospective, observational study. Critical care medicine, Jan. 2012, Vol. 40(1), p.98-103.Jones, D.A., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2012/01000/The_role_of_the_medical_emergency_team_in.15.aspxObjective: To investigate the role of medical emergency teams in end-of-life care planning. Design: One month The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-27368075870526056322012-01-12T16:00:00.002Z2012-01-12T16:06:52.816ZDelayed enteral feeding impairs intestinal carbohydrate absorption in critically ill patientsDelayed enteral feeding impairs intestinal carbohydrate absorption in critically ill patients. Critical care medicine, Jan 2012, Vol. 40(1), p.50-54Nguyen, N.Q., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2012/01000/Delayed_enteral_feeding_impairs_intestinal.9.aspxDelay in initiating enteral nutrition has been reported to disrupt intestinal mucosal integrity in animals and to prolong the The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-42772148416581020902012-01-12T15:57:00.001Z2012-01-12T16:00:28.234ZCritical care in pregnancyCritical care in pregnancy. Critical care, 2011, 15:1014.Plaat, F. & Naik, M.http://ccforum.com/content/15/6/1014/abstractChildbirth is a major event in the lives of mothers and their families. Critical illness in pregnancy is uncommon but may arise from conditions unique to pregnancy, conditions exacerbated by pregnancy and coincidental conditions.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-55022075554497649192012-01-12T15:49:00.003Z2012-01-12T15:57:06.606ZEarly or late parenteral nutritionEarly or late parenteral nutrition: ASPEN vs ESPEN. Critical care, 2011, 15:317.Cove, M.E. & Pinsky, M.R.http://ccforum.com/content/pdf/cc10591.pdfCritically ill patients are often unable to feed themselves, and frequently present in a fasting state. Failure to feed these patients eventually guarantees starvation and, if enough time lapses, death. However, it is less certain when fasting becomes The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-49632286436695732752012-01-12T15:35:00.002Z2012-01-12T15:49:13.813ZRationing in the intensive care unit: To disclose or disguise?Rationing in the intensive care unit: To disclose or disguise? Critical care medicine, Jan 2012, Vol. 40(1), p.261-266.Young, M.J., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2012/01000/Rationing_in_the_intensive_care_unit___To_disclose.38.aspxGrowing pressures to ration intensive care unit beds and services pose novel challenges to clinicians. Whereas the question of how to allocate The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-24650541629572589462011-12-15T12:30:00.002Z2011-12-15T12:33:42.056ZThe effect of a simulation-based training intervention on the performance of established critical care unit teamsThe effect of a simulation-based training intervention on the performance of established critical care unit teams. Critical care medicine, Dec 2011, Vol. 39(12), p. 2605-2611.Frengley, R.W., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2011/12000/The_effect_of_a_simulation_based_training.3.aspxWe evaluated the effectiveness of a simulation-based intervention on improving teamwork in The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-61595089041233541612011-12-15T12:14:00.002Z2011-12-15T12:18:06.609ZThe factors which influence nurses when weaning patients from mechanical ventilationThe factors which influence nurses when weaning patients from mechanical ventilation: A qualitative study. Intensive & critical care nursing, Oct. 2011, Vol. 27(5), p. 244-252.Lavelle, C. and Dowling, M.http://www.intensivecriticalcarenursing.com/article/PIIS0964339711000711/abstract?rss=yesThe aim of the study was to describe the factors that influence critical care nurses when deciding to wean The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-60525724860264959672011-12-15T12:10:00.002Z2011-12-15T12:14:12.238ZAcute post-traumatic stress in survivors of critical illness who were mechanically ventilatedAcute post-traumatic stress in survivors of critcal illness who were mechanically ventilated: A mixed methods study. Intensive & critical care nursing, Dec. 2011, Vol. 27(6), p. 338-346.Talisayon, R., et al.http://www.intensivecriticalcarenursing.com/article/PIIS0964339711000942/abstract?rss=yesThis study investigated the severity of post-traumatic stress (PTS) symptoms, the relationships betweenThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-60544617633175774462011-12-15T12:04:00.002Z2011-12-15T12:10:25.157ZSurviving a critical illness through mutually being there with each otherSurviving a critical illness through mutually being there with each other: A grounded theory study. Intensive & critical care nursing, Dec 2011, Vol. 27(6), p. 317-330.Chiang, V.C.L.http://www.intensivecriticalcarenursing.com/article/PIIS0964339711000930/abstract?rss=yesThe objectives of this study were to conduct a theoretical analysis of the critically ill patients’ perceptions of the impact ofThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-66691192413457123422011-12-15T11:55:00.002Z2011-12-15T12:04:16.913ZNatural history of dental plaque accumulation in mechanically ventilated adults: A descriptive correlational studyNational history of dental plaque accumulation in mechanically ventilated adults: A descriptive correlational study. Intensive & critical care nursing, Dec 2011, Vol. 27(6), p. 299-304.Jones, D.J., et al.http://www.intensivecriticalcarenursing.com/article/PIIS0964339711000802/abstract?rss=yesThe purpose of this study was to describe the pattern of dental plaque accumulation in mechanically The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-197468017487153002011-12-15T11:51:00.002Z2011-12-15T11:55:47.926ZVitamin D deficiency as associated with mortality in the medical intensive care unitVitamin D deficiency as associated with mortality in the medical intensive care unit. Critical Care, 2011, 15:R292.Venkatram, S., et al. http://ccforum.com/content/15/6/R292/abstractThe incidence of vitamin D deficiency in critically ill patients has been reported to range from as low as 17% to 79%. Data regarding the relationship between 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and outcomes in the medical The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-28730682623075621632011-12-15T11:48:00.001Z2011-12-15T11:51:31.616ZLong-term psychological effects of a no sedation protocol in critically ill patientsLong-term psychological effects of a no sedation protocol in critically ill patients. Critical Care, 2011, R:293.Stroem, T., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/6/R293/abstractA protocol of no sedation has been shown to reduce the time patients receive mechanical ventilation and reduce intensive care and total hospital length of stay. The long term psychological effects of this strategy have not The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-47736189717507659502011-12-15T11:43:00.002Z2011-12-15T11:48:21.666ZDecisional responsibility for mechanical ventilation and weaning: an international surveyDecisional responsibility for mechanical ventilation and weaning: An international survey. Critical care 2011, 15:R295.Rose, L., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/6/R295/abstractOptimal management of mechanical ventilation and weaning requires dynamic and collaborative decision making to minimize complications and avoid delays in the transition to extubation. In the absence of collaboration, The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-11939624812603007692011-10-31T15:54:00.002Z2011-10-31T16:09:22.367ZGender-related outcome difference is related to course of sepsis on mixed ICUsGender-related outcome difference is related to course of sepsis on mixed ICUs: a prospective, observational clinical study. Critical Care 2011, 15:R151Nachtigall, I. et al.Impact of gender on severe infections is in highly controversial discussion with natural survival advantage of females described in animal studies but contradictory to those described human data. This study aims to describe The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-63553120779581357262011-10-31T15:36:00.003Z2011-10-31T15:54:08.104ZImpact of quetiapine on resolution of individual delirium symptoms in critically ill patients with deliriumImpact of quetiapine on resolution of individual delirium symptoms in critically ill patients with delirium: a post-hoc analysis of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Critical Care 2011, 15:R215Devlin, JW., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/5/R215The outcome of patients with delirium has been linked to the particular delirium symptoms identified with ICDSC evaluation. HoweverThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-66503192791350710042011-10-31T15:29:00.002Z2011-10-31T15:36:07.090ZOutcome effectiveness of the severe sepsis resuscitation bundle with addition of lactate clearance as a bundle itemOutcome effectiveness of the severe sepsis resuscitation bundle with addition of lactate clearance as a bundle item: a multi-national evaluation. Critical Care 2011, 15:R229.Nguyen, HB., et al.Implementation of the Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) guidelines has been associated with improved outcome in patients with severe sepsis. Resolution of lactate elevations or lactate clearance has also beenThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-12373410993141681182011-10-31T15:20:00.002Z2011-10-31T15:29:02.451ZPlasma from septic shock patients induces loss of muscle proteinPlasma from septic shock patients induces loss of muscle protein. Critical Care 2011, 15:R233. van Hees, HWH, et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/5/R233/abstractICU-acquired muscle weakness commonly occurs in patients with septic shock and is associated with poor outcome. Although atrophy is known to be involved, it is unclear whether ligands in plasma from these patients are responsible for The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-44458940873199134292011-10-31T15:17:00.001Z2011-10-31T15:19:53.337ZEarly natural killer cell counts in blood predict mortality in severe sepsisEarly natural killer cell counts in blood predict mortality in severe sepsis. Critical Care 2011, 15:R243Andaluz-Ojeda, D., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/5/R243/abstractHost immunity should play a principal role in determining both outcome and recovery of sepsis originated by a microbial infection. Quantification of the levels of key elements of the immune response could have a prognostic The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-34442502551637059952011-08-15T11:19:00.002+01:002011-08-15T11:50:23.190+01:00NICE guidelines: DeliriumDelirium: diagnosis, prevention and management. NICE clinical guideline 103, 2010.
http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/13060/49909/49909.pdf
The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-22601109359975339852011-08-15T10:21:00.002+01:002011-08-15T11:19:20.682+01:00Early versus late parenteral nutrition in critically ill adultsEarly versus late parenteral nutrition in critically ill adults. N Engl J Med Aug 2011; 365:506-517.
Casaer, MP, et al.
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1102662
Controversy exists about the timing of the initiation of parenteral nutrition in critically ill adults in whom caloric targets cannot be met by enteral nutrition alone.
The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-61035064806302333892011-07-28T11:44:00.002+01:002011-07-28T12:13:54.202+01:00The evaluation and management of delirium among older personsThe evaluation and management of delirium among older persons. Med Clin North Am. 2011 May;95(3):555-77.Flaherty, JH.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21549878?dopt=AbstractThis article reviews the pathophysiology, prevalence, incidence, and consequences of delirium, focusing on the evaluation of delirium, the published models of care for prevention in patients at risk of delirium, and The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-19929791011414585432011-07-28T10:59:00.002+01:002011-07-28T11:44:25.508+01:00Computer protocol facilitates evidence-based care of sepsis in the surgical intenstive care unitComputer protocol facilitates evidence-based care of sepsis in the surgical ICU. Journal of Trauma. 2011 May;70(5):1153-66; discussion 1166-7.McKinley, BA, et al.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21610430?dopt=AbstractCare of sepsis has been the focus of intense research and guideline development for more than two decades. With ongoing success of computer protocol (CP) technology and with The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-75563837211335649242011-07-28T10:54:00.002+01:002011-07-28T10:59:17.016+01:00Treatment of cancer painTreatment of cancer pain. The Lancet, Volume 377, Issue 9784, Pages 2236 - 2247, 25 June 2011.Portenoy, RK.http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(11)60236-5/abstract?rss=yesdoi:10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60236-5In patients with active cancer, the management of chronic pain is an essential element in a comprehensive strategy for palliative care. This strategy emphasises The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-32144392223335617182011-07-28T10:51:00.002+01:002011-07-28T10:54:23.400+01:00Treatment of chronic non-cancer painTreatment of chronic non-cancer pain. The Lancet, Volume 377, Issue 9784, Pages 2226 - 2235, 25 June 2011. Turk, DC, et al.http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(11)60402-9/abstract?rss=yesdoi:10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60402-9Chronic pain is a pervasive problem that affects the patient, their significant others, and society in many ways. The past decade has seen advances in The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-85059442389947935052011-07-28T10:40:00.002+01:002011-07-28T10:51:28.666+01:00Treatment of acute postoperative painTreatment of acute postoperative pain. The Lancet, Volume 377, Issue 9784, Pages 2215 - 2225, 25 June 2011.Wu, CL and Raja, SN.http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(11)60245-6/abstract?rss=yesdoi:10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60245-6Although postoperative pain remains incompletely controlled in some settings, increased understanding of its mechanisms and the development of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-82261998242032198242011-07-28T09:55:00.003+01:002011-07-28T10:40:09.042+01:00Managing pain effectivelyManaging pain effectively. The Lancet, Volume 377, Issue 9784, Page 2151, 25 June 2011Editorial.http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(11)60942-2/fulltext?rss=yesOver the past decade, our understanding of the underlying pathophysiological process of pain and its management has advanced, leading to new analgesic drugs and techniques, and offering new avenues to alleviate The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-82678428660735018342011-07-28T09:28:00.003+01:002011-07-28T09:55:37.301+01:00Anticipating and managing postoperative delirium and cognitive decline in adultsAnticipating and managing postoperative delirium and cognitive decline in adults. BMJ 2011; 343:d4331.Sanders, RD, et al.http://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d4331.full?ath_user=nhsckeeling004&ath_ttok=%3CTjEjzaNeydLCjsXQ1g%3EThe brain is vulnerable during the perioperative period in people of all ages. Neurobehavioural disturbances are common complications of perioperative care, manifesting in The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-69256148736758556352011-07-19T15:33:00.002+01:002011-07-19T15:56:54.323+01:00Commissioners must do more to prioritise care for people at the end of lifeCommissioners must do more to prioritise care for people at the end of life. BMJ 2011; 343:d4567. [news item]Stoker, P.http://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d4567.fullHealthcare commissioners should prioritise the care of patients who are nearing the end of life to avoid “unnecessary emergency hospital admissions,” says a new report.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-89137387122834809612011-07-19T15:18:00.004+01:002011-07-19T15:32:57.922+01:00Effects of discontinuing or continuing ongoing statin therapy in severe sepsis and septic shockEffects of discontinuing or continuing ongoing statin therapy in severe sepsis and septic shock: a retrospective cohort study. Critical care, vol. 15(4), July 2011.Dessap, AM, et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/4/R171Recent publications suggest potential benefits from statins as a preventive or adjuvant therapy in sepsis. Whether ongoing statin therapy should be continued or discontinued in The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-67053354981050609612011-07-19T14:47:00.002+01:002011-07-19T15:18:35.698+01:00Management and outcome of mechanically ventilated neurologic patientsManagement and outcome of mechanically ventilated neurologic patients. Critical care medicine, vol. 39(6), June 2011, p.1482-1492.Pelosi, P., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2011/06000/Management_and_outcome_of_mechanically_ventilated.36.aspxTo describe and compare characteristics, ventilatory practices, and associated outcomes among mechanically ventilated patients with The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-7949243367871475302011-07-19T14:42:00.002+01:002011-07-19T14:47:01.915+01:00Important questions asked by family members of intensive care unit patientsImportant questions asked by family members of intensive care unit patients. Critical care medicine, vol. 39(6), June 2011, p. 1365-1371.Peigne, V., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2011/06000/Important_questions_asked_by_family_members_of.19.aspxRelatives often lack important information about intensive care unit patients. High-quality information is crucial to help relatives The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-39333340316051165812011-07-06T16:08:00.002+01:002011-07-06T16:11:25.064+01:00Are we sedating more than just the brain?Are we sedating more than just the brain? Critical Care 2011 15:163Brummel, NE and Girard TD.Heavy sedation in the ICU is associated with coma, delirium, and prolonged stays, but links between sedatives and non-brain organ failure have rarely been described. In a post-hoc analysis, Strom et al. explored associations between sedation and acute kidney injury among ICU patients randomized to one of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-52512360934994645042011-07-06T16:04:00.002+01:002011-07-06T16:08:27.531+01:00Fever in septic ICU patients: friend or foe?Fever in septic ICU patients: friend or foe? Critical Care 2011 15:222Launey Y., et al.In recent years, fever control in critically ill patients by medications and/or external cooling has gained widespread use, notably in patients suffering from neurological injuries. Nevertheless, such a strategy in septic patients is not supported by relevant data. Indeed, in response to sepsis, experimental The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-67296213833910281912011-07-06T15:35:00.002+01:002011-07-06T16:02:47.732+01:00Gender related outcome difference is related to course of sepsis on mixed ICUsGender related outcome difference is related to course of sepsis on mixed ICUs: a prospective, observational clinical study. Critical Care 2011, 15:R151Natchtigall I., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/3/R151Impact of gender on severe infections is in highly controversial discussion with natural survival advantage of females described in animal studies but contradictory to human data. This The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-90577362457406753652011-06-15T13:59:00.002+01:002011-06-15T14:11:53.011+01:00How did you sleep in the ICU?How did you sleep in the ICU? Critical Care 2011, 15:408Franck L., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/408Sleep is important for healing and survival of critical illness, as far as quantitative and qualitative sleep deprivation can have negative consequences on a physiologic function, particularly the immune mechanism, as well as psychological well-being. We explored the memorization of sleepThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-88145842256672958492011-06-15T13:51:00.002+01:002011-06-15T13:59:06.121+01:00Is cytomegalovirus reactivation increasing the mortality of patients with severe sepsis? Is cytomegalovirus reactivation increasing the mortality of patients with severe sepsis? Critical Care 2011 15:138 Kalil AC and Florescu DF.Critically ill patients who are immunocompetent before intensive care unit (ICU) admission may also become more prone to develop active CMV infection if they have prolonged hospitalizations, high disease severity, and severe sepsis. The development of activeThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-51155984332781189352011-06-15T13:16:00.002+01:002011-06-15T13:51:01.981+01:00Prolonged mechanical ventilation in critically ill patientsProlonged mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients: epidemiology, outcomes and modelling the potential cost consequences of establishing a regional weaning unit. Lone NI and Walsh TS.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/R102The number of patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) is likely to increase. Transferring patients to specialised weaning units may improve outcomes andThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-62031971437324897082011-06-15T12:15:00.003+01:002011-06-15T12:22:27.667+01:00An evidence-based recommendation on bed head elevation for mechanically ventilated patientsAn evidence-based recommendation on bed head elevation for mechanically ventilated patients. Critical Care 2011, 15:R111Niël-Weise BS, et al.A semi-upright position in ventilated patients is recommended to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and is one of the components in the Ventilator Bundle of the Institute for Health Care Improvement. This recommendation, however, is not an The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-27767938666007962892011-06-15T11:55:00.003+01:002011-06-15T12:15:28.404+01:00Sedation and renal impairment in critically ill patients Sedation and renal impairment in critically ill patients: a post-hoc analysis of a randomized trial. Critical Care 2011, 15:R119Strom T, Johansen RR, Prahl JR and Toft P.http://ccforum.com/content/15/3/R119Not sedating critically ill patients reduces the time patients receive mechanical ventilation, decreases the time in the intensive care department and reduces the total hospital length of stayThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-72222151324969164542011-06-15T11:26:00.001+01:002011-06-15T11:31:19.509+01:00Care bundles: implementing evidence or common sense?Care bundles: implementing evidence or common sense? Critical Care 2011 15:159 Camporota, L and Brett S.Care bundles aim to improve standard of care and patient outcome by promoting the consistent implementation of a group of effective interventions. However, a variety of barriers prevent their full application in clinical practice. Here, we discuss some of the benefits and limitations of care The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-26532309765738307482011-06-15T11:22:00.002+01:002011-06-15T11:26:21.543+01:00Are we sedating more than just the brain?Are we sedating more than just the brain? Critical Care 2011 15:163Brummel NE and Girard TD.Heavy sedation in the ICU is associated with coma, delirium, and prolonged stays, but links between sedatives and non-brain organ failure have rarely been described. In a post-hoc analysis, Strom et al. explored associations between sedation and acute kidney injury among ICU patients randomized to one of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-26607364643243800962011-06-15T11:18:00.003+01:002011-06-15T11:22:10.163+01:00Fever in septic ICU patients: friend or foe?Fever in septic ICU patients: friend or foe? Critical Care 2011 15:222 Launey Y, Nesseler, N, Malledant Y and Seguin P.In recent years, fever control in critically ill patients by medications and/or external cooling has gained widespread use, notably in patients suffering from neurological injuries. Nevertheless, such a strategy in septic patients is not supported by relevant data. Indeed, in The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-11488502857024555352011-06-15T10:45:00.002+01:002011-06-15T10:58:46.283+01:00Totem and taboo: fluids in sepsisTotem and taboo: fluids in sepsis. Critical Care 2011 15:164Hilton, AK and Bellomo, R.The need for early, rapid, and substantial fluid resuscitation in septic patients has long been an article of faith in the intensive care community, a tribal totem that is taboo to question. The results of a recent multicenter trial in septic children in Africa, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-14951026315018721462011-03-10T15:44:00.002Z2011-03-10T15:48:30.660ZUtile or futile: Biomarkers in the ICUUtile or futile: Biomarkers in the ICU. Critical Care 2011, 15:131Balmelli, C., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/131Biomarkers complement other clinical information by proving quantitative information regarding a pathophysiological mechanism that can be used for the early diagnosis of a specific disease, to monitor and guide treatment, and to predict the risk of death or other adverse The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-43648127726890499802011-03-10T15:25:00.002Z2011-03-10T15:42:44.843ZArterial hyperoxia and in-hospital mortality after resuscitation from cardiac arrestArterial hyperoxia and in-hospital mortality after resuscitation from cardiac arrest. Critical Care 2011, 15:R90. Bellomo, R., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/R90Hyperoxia has been recently reported as an independent risk factor for mortality in patients resuscitated from cardiac arrest. We examined the independent relationship between hyperoxia and outcome in such patients.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-30717328399745067162011-03-10T14:28:00.002Z2011-03-10T15:25:34.184ZActivagted protein C in septic shock: a propensity-matched analysisActivated protein C in septic shock: a propensity-matched analysis. Critical Care 2011, 15:R89Sadaka, F., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/R89The use of human recombinant activated protein C (rhAPC) for the treatment of severe sepsis remains controversial despite multiple reported trials. The efficacy of rhAPC remains a matter of dispute. We hypothesized that patients with septic shock who The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-5969000497561245882011-03-08T15:28:00.002Z2011-03-08T15:33:46.151ZQuality of life after intensive care: A systematic review of the literatureQuality of life after intensive care: A systematic review of the literature. Critical Care Medicine, Vol 38(12), December 2010,p. 2386-2400.Oeyen, S.G., et al. http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2010/12000/Quality_of_life_after_intensive_care__A_systematic.18.aspxQuality of life differed on diagnostic category but, overall, critically ill patients had a lower quality of life than an ageThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-49288089406626574902011-03-08T15:10:00.003Z2011-03-08T15:28:09.038ZDelirium duration and mortality in lightly sedated, mechanicaly ventilated intensive care patientsDelirium duration and mortality in lightly sedated, mechanically ventilated intensive care patients. Critical Care Medicine, Vol 38(12), December 2010, p. 2311-2318.Shehabi, Y., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2010/12000/Delirium_duration_and_mortality_in_lightly.7.aspxTo determine the relationship between the number of delirium days experienced by intensive care patients and The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-11531315781836071932011-03-08T15:02:00.002Z2011-03-08T15:10:01.717ZSeptic shock: a multidisciplinary response team and weekly feedback to clinicians improve the process of care and mortalitySeptic shock: A multidisciplinary response team and weekly feedback to clinicians improve the process of care and mortality. Critical Care Medicine, Vol 39(2), February 2011, p. 252-258.Schramm, G.E., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2011/02000/Septic_shock__A_multidisciplinary_response_team.2.aspxTo evaluate the impact of weekly feedback to clinicians and the activation of a The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-59007843196983623412011-03-08T14:50:00.002Z2011-03-08T15:02:11.287ZCorticosteroid therapy for patients in septic shock: some progress in a difficult decisionCorticosteroid therapy for patients in septic shock: Some progress in a difficult decision. Critical Care Medicine Vol 39(3), March 2011, p. 571-574 Sprung, C.L., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2011/03000/Corticosteroid_therapy_for_patients_in_septic.20.aspxReversible adrenal insufficiency has been frequently diagnosed in critically ill patients with sepsis who have either lowThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-16257246320765875292011-03-08T14:46:00.002Z2011-03-08T14:50:41.774ZEffect of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation on muscle volume in patients with septic shockEffect of transcutaneous electrical muscle stimulation on muscle volume in patients with septic shock. Critical Care Medicine Vol 39(3), March 2011, p.456-461 Poulsen, J.B., et al.http://journals.lww.com/ccmjournal/Abstract/2011/03000/Effect_of_transcutaneous_electrical_muscle.5.aspxIntensive care unit admission is associated with muscle wasting and impaired physical function. We investigated The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-67251640859460991092011-03-08T14:06:00.001Z2011-03-08T14:09:10.572ZHow did you sleep in the ICU?How did you sleep in the ICU? Critical Care 2011, 15:408.Franck, L., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/408Patient sleep is extremely disturbed in the intensive care unit. We explored the memorization of sleep disturbances during a phone interview of 60 patients using the Basic Nordic Sleep Questionnaire. Half of them reminded sleep deprivation and one third of them had a decreased long term The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-75344221751870216052011-03-08T13:53:00.002Z2011-03-08T14:06:29.740ZInspiratory muscle strength training improves weanting outcome in failure to wean patients: a randomized trialInspiratory muscle strength training improves weaning outcome in failure towean patients: a randomized trial. Critical Care 2011, Vol 15(2):R84Martin, A.D., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/15/2/R84Most patients are readily liberated from mechanical ventilation (MV) support, however, 10% - 15% of patients experience failure to wean (FTW). FTW patients account for approximately 40% of all MV daysThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-51565627992141894502011-03-03T15:25:00.001Z2011-03-03T15:31:11.331ZDelirium in the ICU: time to probe the hard questionsDelirium in the ICU: time to probe the hard questions. Critical Care 2011 15:118 Stevens, R.D., et al.Prevalent in critically ill patients, delirium remains poorly understood and difficult to treat. In a cross-sectional study conducted in 12 countries, delirium was identified in close to one third of patients and was independently associated with increased mortality. While such epidemiological The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-16359571087405766882011-03-03T15:20:00.002Z2011-03-03T15:25:09.263ZSizing the lung of mechanically ventilated patientsSizing the lung of mechanically ventilated patients. Critical Care 2011, 15:R60Mattingley, J.S., et alhttp://ccforum.com/content/15/1/R60 This small observational study was motivated by our belief that scaling the tidal volume in mechanically ventilated patients to the size of the injured lung is safer and more "physiologic" than scaling it to predicted body weight, i.e. its size before it was The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-9744697753467006112011-03-03T15:12:00.002Z2011-03-03T15:19:46.952ZBlood purification for sepsisBlood purification for sepsis. Critical Care 2011 15:205.Kellum, J.Sepsis is the primary cause of death in the intensive care unit. Extracorporeal blood purification therapies have been proposed for patients with sepsis in order to improve outcomes since these therapies can alter the host inflammatory response by non-selective removal of inflammatory mediators and/or bacterial products. Recent The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-65173858154246660702011-03-03T13:56:00.003Z2011-03-03T15:12:34.675ZImmunity, inflammation and sepsis: new insights and persistent questionsImmunity, inflammation and sepsis: new insights and persistent questions. Critical Care 2011 15:124 Frazier, W.J. Sepsis is now understood to affect a variety of changes in the host, chief among them being alterations in immune system function. Proper immune function involves a competent proinflammatory response to stimuli as well as a regulated counteracting force to restore homeostasis and The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-56801478413763362692011-01-27T14:32:00.002Z2011-01-27T14:46:00.978ZParadoxical ventilator associated pneumonia incidencesParadoxical ventilator associated pneumonia incidences among selective digestive decontamination studies versus other studies of mechanically ventilated patients: benchmarking the evidence base. Critical Care 2011, 15:R7.Hurley, J.C.Selective digestive decontamination (SDD) appears to have a more compelling evidence base than non-antimicrobial methods for the prevention of ventilator associated The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-60374941982302787372011-01-27T13:27:00.003Z2011-01-27T14:32:53.593ZAnxiety and depression symptoms in critically ill patientsEarly intra-intensive care unit psychological intervention promotes recovery from post traumatic stess disorders, anxiety and depression symptoms in critically patients. Critical Care 2011, 15:R41.Peris, A., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/pdf/cc10003.pdfCritically ill patients who required intensive care unit (ICU) treatment may experience psychological distress, with increasing development of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-72489452505212311902011-01-04T11:07:00.002Z2011-01-04T11:15:28.242ZGlycemic control in the ICUGlycemic control in the ICU. N Engl J Med 2010; 363:2540-2546Kavanagh, BP and McCowen, KC.http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMcp1001115A 42-year-old man is admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with an acute exacerbation of asthma associated with community-acquired pneumonia. He is treated with cefotaxime and azithromycin, nebulized albuterol, and intravenous hydrocortisone. He has no The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-69276077262766676342011-01-04T11:01:00.002Z2011-01-04T11:07:20.443ZDiagnosing deliriumDiagnosing delirium. JAMA. 2010;304(19):2125.Radtke, FM, et al.http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/304/19/2125.1.fullDr Wong and colleagues provided a systematic review that included discussion of easy-to-use bedside instruments to detect delirium; such tools are paramount in early diagnosis and treatment. However, there are 2 important additional aspects that we would like to address.(See The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-90359733556301158022011-01-04T10:22:00.002Z2011-01-04T11:01:12.721ZDoes this patient have delirium?Does this patient have delirium? JAMA. 2010;304(7):779-786.Wong, CL, et al.http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/304/7/779.abstract?ijkey=&keytype2=tf_ipsecshaDelirium occurs in many hospitalized older patients and has serious consequences including increased risk for death and admission to long-term care. Despite its importance, health care clinicians often fail to recognize delirium. Simple bedsideThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-13697483499431280082010-12-09T12:35:00.002Z2010-12-09T12:40:40.775ZInitiation of inappropriate antimicrobial therapy results in a fivefold reduction of survival in human septic shockInitiation of inappropriate antimicrobial therapy results in a fivefold reduction of survival in human septic shock. Chest, 2009, Vol. 136(5), p. 1237-1248.Kumar, A., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/5/1237.fullTo determine the impact of the initiation of inappropriate antimicrobial therapy on survival to hospital discharge of patients with septic shock.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-39992372159298511782010-12-09T12:15:00.002Z2010-12-09T12:20:35.830ZPotential for response bias in family surveys about end-of-life care in the ICUPotential for response bias in family surveys about end-of-life care in the ICU. Chest, 2009, Vol. 136(6), p. 1496-1502.Kross, E.K., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/6/1496.fullAfter-death surveys are an important source of information about the quality of end-of-life care, but response rates generally are low. Our goal was to understand the potential for nonresponse bias in The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-72979108404291949752010-12-09T12:11:00.002Z2010-12-09T12:15:41.905ZAssociation between ICU admission during morning rounds and mortalityAssociation between ICU admission during morning rounds and mortality. Chest, 2009, Vol. 136(6), p. 1489 - 1495.Afessa, B., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/6/1489.fullNo previous study has evaluated the association between admission to ICUs during round time and patient outcome. The objective of this study was to determine the association between round-time ICU admission and The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-55003515017997293932010-12-09T12:05:00.002Z2010-12-09T12:10:56.595ZThe ICU 'golden hour' vs morning admissionsThe ICU 'golden hour' vs morning admissions. Chest, 2009, vol. 136(6), p. 1449-1451.Freire, AX and Yataco, JC. http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/6/1449.fullThe authors present a robust observation from a single academic institution identifying an association between ICU admissions during morning teaching rounds and increased severity-adjusted mortality.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-54990097766683045212010-12-09T11:40:00.003Z2010-12-09T11:48:56.283ZWeaning from ventilation: Does a care bundle approach work?Weaning from ventilation: Does a care bundle approach work? Intensive and critical care nursing, 2008, vol. 24(3), p. 180-186Crocker, C. and Kinnear, W.http://www.intensivecriticalcarenursing.com/article/S0964-3397(07)00120-6/abstract A care bundle is a small but critical set of processes that when implemented together improve outcome. One critical care network has written a weaning care bundle.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-77767879532994887372010-12-09T11:36:00.003Z2010-12-09T11:40:24.423ZEnd of life decisions:Nurses' perceptions, feelings and experiencesEnd of life decisions: Nurses' perceptions, feelings and experiences. Intensive and critical care nursing, 2008, Vol 24(4), p. 251-59McMillen, R.E.http://www.intensivecriticalcarenursing.com/article/S0964-3397(07)00119-X/abstractDecisions to withdraw treatment are made on a regular basis in intensive care units. While nurses play a central role in patient care, previous studies have found that The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-11030775400875430662010-11-03T11:46:00.002Z2010-11-03T11:52:50.279ZHaving the difficult conversations about the end of lifeHaving the difficult conversations about the end of life. BMJ 2010; 341:c4862Barclay, S. and Maher, J.http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c4862.fullClinicians need to create repeated opportunities for patients to talk about their future and end of life care, guided by the patient as to timing, pace, and content of such talks, and respecting the wishes of those who do not want to discuss such The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-70118122573061615442010-11-03T11:40:00.002Z2010-11-03T11:46:08.235ZAchieving a good death for allAchieving a good death for all. BMJ 2010; 341:c4861.Ellershaw, J., et al. http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c4861.fullA good death for all is now recognised as a priority at societal and political levels. To achieve this goal we need a fundamental shift of emphasis: to train and educate healthcare professionals, to ensure rigorous assessment of new end of life care services that aim to improveThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-54664450945344607682010-11-03T10:23:00.002Z2010-11-03T11:40:11.457ZDying matters: let's talk about itDying matters: let's talk about it. BMJ 2010; 341:c4860Seymour, J.E., et al.http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c4860.fullAs death has become less common in our daily lives, it has become harder to consider our own mortality or that of those close to us. Lack of openness about death has negative consequences for the quality of care provided to the dying and bereaved. Eradicating ignorance about The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-40863741367408239592010-11-03T10:09:00.002Z2010-11-03T10:22:52.197ZRecognising and managing key transitions in end of life careRecognising and managing key transitions in end of life care. BMJ 2010; 341:c4863.Boyd, K. and Murray, S.A.http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c4863.fullPrognostic paralysis may delay a change in gear for too long. Being alert to the possibility that a patient might benefit from supportive and palliative care is central to delivering better end of life care.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-285674919964630892010-11-03T10:02:00.002Z2010-11-03T10:08:18.517ZLong-term cognitive impairment and functional disability among survivors of severe sepsisLong-term cognitive impairment and functional disability among survivors of severe sepsis. JAMA vol. 314(16), 2010; p. 1787-1794.Iwashyna, T.J., et al.http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/304/16/1787?etocCognitive impairment and functional disability are major determinants of caregiving needs and societal health care costs. Although the incidence of severe sepsis is high and increasing, theThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-88673971767588224892010-10-21T11:28:00.003+01:002010-10-21T11:38:01.644+01:00A 19-year-old woman with intracranial hemorrhage and diffuse pulmonary infiltratesA 19-year-old woman with intracranial hemorrhage and diffuse pulmonary infiltrates. CHEST October 2010 vol. 138(4), p. 1014-1017.Liu, Z., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/138/4/1014.full.pdf+htmlA 19-year-old, previously healthy woman presented with a sudden onset of headache and an altered mental status. Her vital signs were stable, and physical examinations were significant onlyThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-34538656829099811172010-10-21T11:07:00.002+01:002010-10-21T11:13:45.233+01:00Alcohol-use disorder in the critically ill patientAlcohol-use disorder in the critically ill patient. CHEST October 2010 vol. 138(4), p. 994-1003.de Wit, M., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/138/4/994.fullThis review discusses the development and progression of critical illness in patients with AUDs. AUDs are linked to not only a higher likelihood of community-acquired pneumonia and sepsis but also a higher severity of illness andThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-9607929100047133482010-10-21T09:56:00.002+01:002010-10-21T11:05:11.946+01:00Less obvious predictors of post-ICU informal caregiver burdenLess obvious predictors of post-ICU informal caregiver burden. CHEST October 2010 Vol. 138(4), p. 1024.Kulkarni, H.S.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/138/4/1024.1.full.pdf+htmlFollow up to the study by Van Pelt et al on the effect of critical illness felt by patients' families.The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-46826434657784604422010-08-26T14:24:00.002+01:002010-08-26T14:28:42.604+01:00One year trajectories of care and resource utilization for recipients of prolonged mechanical ventilationOne year trajectories of care and resource utilization for recipients of prolonged mechanical ventilation. Annals of internal medicine, vol. 153(3), p. 167-175 Unroe, M. et al.http://www.annals.org/content/153/3/167.abstractGrowing numbers of critically ill patients receive prolonged mechanical ventilation. Little is known about the patterns of care as patients transition from acute care The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-58074362003369517902010-08-09T11:16:00.003+01:002010-08-09T11:40:43.140+01:00Survivorship will be the defining challenge of critical care in the 21st centurySurvivorship will be the defining challenge of critical care in the 21st century. Annals of internal medicine, August 3, 2010 vol. 153(3), p. 204-205.Iwashyna, T.J.http://www.annals.org/content/153/3/204.short?rss=1Distracted by the high mortality rate of critical illness, we tend to overlook the essential fact that most patients survive the intensive care unit (ICU). Every year, millions of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-62037231650237494172010-08-09T10:27:00.002+01:002010-08-09T11:15:53.325+01:00Decrease in long-term survival for hospitalized patients with community-acquired pneumoniaDecrease in long-term survival for hospitalized patients with community-acquired pneumonia. CHEST August 2010 vol. 138 (2), p. 279-283Bordon, J., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/138/2/279.abstractThe association of hospitalization because of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and long-term survival has not been fully examined. This study measured the long-term survival of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-62358416842731055482010-08-09T09:55:00.003+01:002010-08-09T10:26:43.984+01:00Predictors of time to death after terminal withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in the ICUPredictors of Time to Death After Terminal Withdrawal of Mechanical Ventilation in the ICU.CHEST August 2010 vol. 138 (2), p. 289-297Cooke, C.R., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/138/2/289.short?rss=1Little information exists about the expected time to death after terminal withdrawal of mechanical ventilation. This study seeks to determine the independent predictors of time to The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-74414433972598047972010-06-10T09:45:00.002+01:002010-06-10T09:55:19.094+01:00Outcomes of patients ventilated with synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation with pressure supportOutcomes of patients ventilated with synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation with pressure support. CHEST, June 2010 Vol. 137(6), p. 1265-1277.Ortiz, G., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/137/6/1265.short?rss=1Few data are available regarding the benefits of one mode over another for ventilatory support. We set out to compare clinical outcomes of patients receiving The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-83232384996312516192010-05-04T09:27:00.003+01:002010-05-04T11:07:05.308+01:00Effects of ear plugs and eye masks on nocturnal sleep, melatonin and cortisol in a simulated ICU environmentEffects of ear plugs and eye masks on nocturnal sleep, melatonin and cortisol in a simulated ICU environment. Critical Care vol. 14 (2), Apr 2010, p.Hu, R. et al.http://ccforum.com/content/14/2/R66Environmental stimulus, especially noise and light, is thought to disrupt sleep in patients in the ICU. This study aimed to determine the physiological and psychological effects of ICU noise and light, The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-31990966881842154482010-03-23T10:03:00.002Z2010-03-23T10:09:16.676ZThe effect of multidisciplinary care teams on intensive care unit mortalityThe effect of multidisciplinary care teams on intensive care unit mortality. Archives of Internal Medicine, 2010; Vol. 170(4), pages 369-376.Kim, M.M. et al.http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/170/4/369?maxtoshow=&hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&fulltext=Michelle%2BM.%2BKim&searchid=1&FIRSTINDEX=0&resourcetype=HWCITCritically ill patients are medically complex and may benefit from a The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-59078654601936145082010-03-23T09:45:00.004Z2010-03-23T10:03:45.985ZHypoglycemia in the critically ill: how low is too low?Hypoglycemia in the critically ill: how low is too low? Mayo clinic proceedings, March 2010, Vol. 85(3), p. 215-216. Krinsley, J.S.http://www.mayoclinicproceedings.com/content/85/3/215.fullTight glycemic control in critically ill patients became a therapeutic paradigm after the 2001 publication of a landmark single-center interventional trial in Leuven, Belgium, (ie, “Leuven 1”) that targeted The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-10400683261302785462009-12-16T10:32:00.003Z2009-12-16T10:49:27.155ZAssociation between ICU admission during morning rounds and mortalityAssociation between ICU admission during morning rounds and mortality. CHEST, Dec. 2009 vol. 136(6), p. 1489-1495.Afessa, B. et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/6/1489.fullBackground: No previous study has evaluated the association between admission to ICUs during round time and patient outcome. The objective of this study was to determine the association between round-time ICU The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-25068417531245490172009-12-16T10:19:00.002Z2009-12-16T10:32:23.938ZEvaluation of modernisation of adult critical care services in EnglandEvaluation of modernisation of adult critical care services in England: time series and cost effectiveness analysis. BMJ 2009;339:b4353Hutchings, A., et al.http://sccmwww.sccm.org/publications/eNewsletters_Archive/11_19_2009.htm#n1(Click on link: British Medical Journal, full text)Objective: To evaluate the impact and cost effectiveness of a programme to transform adult critical care throughout The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-65406679464167380182009-12-16T10:10:00.000Z2009-12-16T10:18:57.502ZPotential for response bias in family surveys about end-of-life care in the ICUPotential for response bias in family surveys about end-of-life care in the ICU. CHEST, Dec. 2009, vol. 136 (6), p. 1496-1502.Kross, E.K., et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/6/1496.fullAfter-death surveys are an important source of information about the quality of end-of-life care, but response rates generally are low. Our goal was to understand the potential for nonresponse The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-37414845748117257732009-12-16T10:02:00.000Z2009-12-16T10:10:10.052ZInternational study of the prevalence and outcomes of infection in ICUsInternational study of the prevalence and outcomes of infection in ICUs. JAMA. 2009;302(21):2323-2329.Vincent, J.L. et al.http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/302/21/2323Infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide. However, relatively little information is available about the global epidemiology of such infections. Objective: To provideThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-37820822493719913122009-11-11T11:22:00.002Z2009-11-11T11:27:07.264ZICU admissions after actual or planned hospital dischargeICU admissions after actual or planned hospital discharge. Chest, vol. 136(5), Nov. 2009, p.1257-1262.Chawla, S., et al. http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/136/5/1257.fullUnexpected ICU admissions may result from early or premature discharge from the hospital. We sought to determine the incidence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of patients admitted to the ICU after actual or The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-7100682974910629182009-11-11T11:10:00.003Z2009-11-11T11:18:02.806ZCaring to the end?Caring to the end? National confidential enquiry into patient outcome and death. A review of the care of patients who died in hospital within four days of admission. 2009.Cooper, H. et al.http://www.ncepod.org.uk/2009report2/Downloads/DAH_report.pdfThis report highlights the process of care of patients who died in acute hospitals within four days of admission. It takes a critical look at the The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-64233387992745450062009-11-11T10:55:00.003Z2009-11-11T11:07:57.243ZProlonged acute mechanical ventilation: implications for hospital benchmarkingProlonged acute mechanical ventilation: implications for hospital benchmarking. Chest, vol. 135(5), May 2009, p.1157-1162.Zilberberg, M.D. et al.http://chestjournal.chestpubs.org/content/135/5/1157.fullHospital performance measures rely on aggregate outcomes. For patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV), outcomes depend on severity of illness, hospital MV volume, and case mix. Patients The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-62857978738576716102009-09-30T15:47:00.003+01:002009-09-30T16:02:24.081+01:00Age, duration of mechanical ventilation and outcomes of patients who are critically illAge, duration of mechanical ventilation and outcomes of patients who are critically ill. Chest vol. 136(3), Sept. 2009, p. 759-764.Feng, Y. et al.http://www.chestjournal.org/content/136/3/759.full.pdf+htmlAge and duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) are strongly associated with mortality and hospital discharge disposition. Methods: Electronic administrative records from a 425-bed community The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-69486684482657476322009-09-09T15:31:00.002+01:002009-09-09T15:36:23.311+01:00Effects on management and outcome of severe sepsis and septic shock patients admitted to the intensive care unitEffects on management and outcome of severe sepsis and septic shock patients admitted to the intensive care unit after implementation of a sepsis program: a pilot study. Critical care Vol. 13(5), Sept 2009.Girardis, M., et al.http://ccforum.com/content/pdf/cc8029.pdfThe application in clinical practice of evidence-based guidelines for the management of patients with severe sepsis/septic shock isThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-30440892947541535932009-09-01T09:01:00.002+01:002009-09-01T09:10:45.078+01:00Pain management within the palliative and end-of-life care experience in the ICUPain management within the palliative and end-of-life care experience in the ICU. Chest, May 2009, vol. 135(5), 1360-1369.Mularski, R.A., et al.http://www.chestjournal.org/content/135/5/1360.full.pdf+htmlIn the ICU where critically ill patients receive aggressive life-sustaining interventions, suffering is common and death can be expected in up to 20% of patients. High-quality pain management isThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-25203855944261482492009-08-12T09:55:00.004+01:002009-08-12T11:06:48.816+01:00Terminal Withdrawal of Mechanical Ventilation at a Long-Term Acute Care HospitalTerminal Withdrawal of Mechanical Ventilation at a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital: Comparison with a medical ICU. Chest, vol. 136(2), Aug 2009, p.465-470.White, A.C., et al.http://www.chestjournal.org/content/136/2/465.full.pdf+htmlLong-term acute care hospitals provide care for patients who require prolonged mechanical ventilation (MV) for respiratory failure. A multicenter study found weaning toThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-66913468040653958192009-08-12T09:38:00.001+01:002009-08-12T11:02:07.033+01:00A Randomized Trial of Dental Brushing for Prevening Ventilator-Associated PneumoniaA Randomized Trial of Dental Brushing for Preventing Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia. Chest, vol. 136(2), Aug. 2009, p. 433-499.Pobo, A., et al.http://www.chestjournal.org/content/136/2/433.full.pdf+htmlPoor oral hygiene is associated with respiratory pathogen colonization and secondarylung infection. The impact of adding electric toothbrushing to oral care in order to reduceventilator-associatedThe Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-35660253764731053672009-07-31T16:18:00.002+01:002009-07-31T16:23:10.927+01:00Experiences of intensive care nurses assessing sedation/agitation in critically ill patientsExperiences of intensive care nurses assessing sedation/agitation in critically ill patients. Nursing in critical care, vol. 13(4), 2008. [journal article]Weir, S. and O'Neill, A. http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/119878662/PDFSTARTPatients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) will more often than not require sedative and analgesic drugs to enable them to tolerate the The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-57088897583904177432009-07-31T16:04:00.005+01:002009-07-31T16:09:56.066+01:00Withdrawal of mechanical ventilation in anticipation of death in the intensive care unit. New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 349(12), Sept. 2003. [journal article]Cook, D., et al.http://content.nejm.org/cgi/reprint/349/12/1123.pdfIn critically ill patients who are receiving mechanical ventilation, the factors associated with physicians’ decisions to withdraw ventilation in anticipation of The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1975374082248409006.post-57056397900321105892009-07-31T15:54:00.003+01:002009-07-31T16:00:39.919+01:00Non-invasive ventilation: don't push too hardNon-invasive ventilation: don't push too hard. New england journal of medicine, Vol. 350(24), June 2004. [journal article]Truwit, J.D. and Bernard, G.R.http://content.nejm.org/cgi/reprint/350/24/2512.pdfNoninvasive mechanical ventilation has been used increasingly over the past decade in an effort to avoid endotracheal intubation and to accelerate the discontinuation of mechanical ventilation. The Librarynoreply@blogger.com0