Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners
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J Am Assoc Nurse Pract · Jun 2018
Effects of the use of neuromuscular blocking agents on acute respiratory distress syndrome outcomes: A systematic review.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a high-mortality disease with limited treatment options. Optimization of gas exchange while limiting damage to the lungs is key. The use of neuromuscular blocking agents may limit hypoxemia while preventing ventilator-induced lung injury. ⋯ Secondary analysis from two separate groups concluded the improved outcomes, with no evidence of increased risk of critical illness polyneuropathy or myopathy, suggest that the use of NMBAs in severe ARDS is appropriate.