Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthésie
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
The evaluation of smartphone versions of the visual analogue scale and numeric rating scale as postoperative pain assessment tools: a prospective randomized trial.
The Pain assessment using a novel digital application (Panda) is a smartphone application that contains the digital versions of the visual analogue scale (VAS-100) and numeric rating scale (NRS-11). This study aimed to investigate if the Panda versions of these two pain scales are equivalent to the paper versions in adult patients. ⋯ Following emergence from anesthesia in adult patients, the digital Panda version of the NRS-11, but not the VAS-100, is equivalent to the validated paper version. In those who are ready for discharge from the PACU, the digital Panda versions of both the VAS-100 and NRS-11 agreed adequately and can be used in place of the original paper versions.
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Multicenter Study
The PROTROPIC feasibility study: prognostic value of elevated troponins in critical illness.
Elevated cardiac troponin concentrations in people with critical illness are associated with an increased risk of death. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a larger study to ascertain the utility of cardiac troponin as a prognostic tool for mortality in critically ill patients. ⋯ Myocardial injury with elevated hs-cTnI concentrations and MIs occur frequently during critical illness. This pilot study has established the feasibility of conducting a large-scale investigation addressing this issue.
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Rates of organ donation vary between otherwise comparable intensive care units (ICUs) suggesting that the process of donation must vary between ICUs. The purpose of this study was to describe the process of organ donation from the perspective of ICU staff, identify important drivers of successful donation, and develop strategies to improve the process of donation. ⋯ Incorporating the perspectives of ICU staff, we were able to identify 22 practice changes that may have a significant cumulative impact on donation outcomes. Future research is required to evaluate whether these findings account for the variability of donation rates between otherwise comparable ICUs.
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Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Efficacy and safety of erythropoietin and iron therapy to reduce red blood cell transfusion in surgical patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Erythropoietin further reduces red blood cell transfusion in surgical patients, beyond iron therapy alone.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Effect of age of transfused red blood cells on neurologic outcome following traumatic brain injury (ABLE-tbi Study): a nested study of the Age of Blood Evaluation (ABLE) trial.
Anemia is common in critically ill patients with traumatic brain injury, and often requires red blood cell transfusion. Studies suggest that prolonged storage causes lesions of the red blood cells, including a decreased ability to carry oxygen. Considering the susceptibility of the brain to hypoxemia, victims of traumatic brain injury may thus be more vulnerable to exposure to older red blood cells. ⋯ Overall, transfusion of fresh red blood cells was not associated with a better neurologic outcome at six months in critically ill patients with traumatic brain injury. Nevertheless, we cannot exclude a differential effect according to the patient baseline prognosis.