Critical care medicine
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Critical care medicine · Nov 2006
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyNeuromuscular blocking agents decrease inflammatory response in patients presenting with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
To evaluate the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) on pulmonary and systemic inflammation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome ventilated with a lung-protective strategy. ⋯ Early use of NMBAs decrease the proinflammatory response associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome and mechanical ventilation.
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Critical care medicine · Nov 2006
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyReduced burden of bacterial airway colonization with a novel silver-coated endotracheal tube in a randomized multiple-center feasibility study.
To assess the feasibility and safety of the respiratory infection control (RIC) device, a silver-coated endotracheal tube, and its effect on bacterial burden in the airways. ⋯ In this prospectively planned, preliminary analysis, the RIC device was feasible and well tolerated. Larger studies are needed to determine whether delayed colonization, reduced colonization rate, and decreased bacterial burden will decrease the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia.
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Critical care medicine · Nov 2006
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyPulsed steroid therapy is an effective treatment for intractable hyperemesis gravidarum.
Intractable hyperemesis gravidarum remains a serious cause of morbidity among pregnant women. If not controlled, hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to severe disability, electrolyte and acid base imbalance, and even various organ system dysfunctions. From the successful use of steroids for chemotherapy-induced emesis, corticosteroids might prove useful in hyperemesis gravidarum. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of pulsed hydrocortisone therapy with that of metoclopramide for the management of intractable hyperemesis gravidarum. ⋯ A short course of hydrocortisone is an effective treatment for intractable hyperemesis gravidarum.