Journal of critical care
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Journal of critical care · Apr 2016
Comparative Study Observational StudyThe effect of physician staffing model on patient outcomes in a medical progressive care unit.
Although evidence supports the impact of intensivist physician staffing in improving intensive care unit (ICU) outcomes, the optimal coverage for progressive care units (PCU) is unknown. We sought to determine how physician staffing models influence outcomes for intermediate care patients. ⋯ We found no evidence that high-intensity intensivist physician staffing improves outcomes for intermediate care patients. In a strained critical care system, our study raises questions about the role of the intensivist in the graded care options between intensive and conventional ward care.
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Journal of critical care · Apr 2016
Delayed anticoagulation is associated with poor outcomes in high-risk acute pulmonary embolism.
Early diagnosis and timely treatment are essential to improve the outcomes of pulmonary embolism (PE), but no study has investigated the impact of anticoagulation timing on clinical outcomes in high-risk acute PE patients. We analyzed the relationship between early anticoagulation initiation and in-hospital mortality in high-risk acute PE patients at the intensive care unit (ICU) of a teaching hospital. ⋯ Delayed anticoagulation is an important prognostic factor of poor outcomes in high-risk acute PE patients.
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Journal of critical care · Apr 2016
Review Meta AnalysisThe effects of chlorhexidine gluconate bathing on health care-associated infection in intensive care units: A meta-analysis.
The purpose was to assess the effects of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) bathing on health care-associated infections among critically ill patients. ⋯ Daily CHG bathing was associated with reduced risks of acquiring CLABSI, MRSA, and VRE. A prolonged intervention period and concomitant nasal antibiotic use were associated with lower risks of MRSA acquisition.