Journal of critical care
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2009
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyComparison between dexmedetomidine and midazolam for sedation of eclampsia patients in the intensive care unit.
This study compares the effectiveness of midazolam and dexmedetomidine for the sedation of eclampsia patients admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU). ⋯ Dexmedetomidine sedation in eclampsia patients is effective in reducing the demand for antihypertensive medicine and duration of ICU stay.
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2009
Drotrecogin alfa (activated) for severe sepsis: could we consider a shorter treatment period in patients with a favorable course?
The objective of this study was to develop a model to identify patients in whom drotrecogin alfa (activated) (DAA) might be administered for periods shorter than the recommended 96 hours. ⋯ A simple model based on sequential organ failure assessment score and arterial pH can help identify patients with a rapid favorable course in whom a shorter duration of DAA treatment may be justified.
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2009
Constipation in intensive care unit: incidence and risk factors.
Although gastrointestinal motility disorders are common in critically ill patients, constipation and its implications have received very little attention. We aimed to determine the incidence of constipation to find risk factors and its implications in critically ill patients ⋯ Constipation is very common among critically ill patients. Early enteral nutrition is associated with earlier return of bowel function.
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Journal of critical care · Dec 2009
Effect of a clinical decision support system on adherence to a lower tidal volume mechanical ventilation strategy.
The purpose of the study was to measure the effect of a computerized decision support system (CDSS) on adherence to tidal volume (V(T)) recommendations. ⋯ The use of a CDSS, integrated in a patient data management system, improves implementation of a lower V(T) mechanical ventilation strategy for patients ventilated for longer than 24 hours.
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Delirium is common but underdiagnosed in critical care units, which results in increased morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of diagnosing delirium with the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS) in India. ⋯ Our findings suggest that training junior residents to use a brief screening instrument to diagnose delirium is a reliable and valid option in resource-poor critical care settings.