Journal of critical care
-
Journal of critical care · Apr 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyThe effect of prognostic data presentation format on perceived risk among surrogate decision makers of critically ill patients: A randomized comparative trial.
The purpose of this study is to determine whether varying the format used to present prognostic data alters the perception of risk among surrogate decision makers in the intensive care unit (ICU). ⋯ Data format had a significant effect on how surrogate decision makers interpreted risk. Qualitative statements are interpreted widely and affected by framing. Where possible, multiple quantitative formats should be used for presenting prognostic information.
-
Journal of critical care · Apr 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialThe effectiveness of an intensive care quick reference checklist manual-A randomized simulation-based trial.
We aimed to test the effectiveness of checklists for emergency procedures on medical staff performance in intensive care crises. ⋯ Use of checklists in ICU crises has a benefit on the completion of critical treatment steps. Within the type 2 scenarios, items were fulfilled faster with checklists. The implementation of checklists for intensive care crises is a promising approach that may improve patients' care.
-
Journal of critical care · Apr 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialLow dose of glucocorticoid decreases the incidence of complications in severely burned patients by attenuating systemic inflammation.
Excessive systemic inflammatory response remains as a major problem underlying severe burns. This study aimed to assess the effect of low-dose glucocorticoid treatment in downregulating systemic inflammation in severely burned patients. ⋯ Low dose of glucocorticoid treatment during the acute phase could reduce the levels of proinflammatory cytokines in severely burned patients and subsequently decrease the incidence of pulmonary infection and stress ulcer, as well as the length of hospital stay.
-
Journal of critical care · Feb 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialNeuromuscular electrical stimulation in mechanically ventilated patients: A randomized, sham-controlled pilot trial with blinded outcome assessment.
The purpose of the study is to compare neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) vs sham on leg strength at hospital discharge in mechanically ventilated patients. ⋯ In this pilot randomized trial, NMES did not significantly improve leg strength at hospital discharge. Significant improvements in secondary outcomes require investigation in future research.
-
Journal of critical care · Feb 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialA randomized trial of Mycobacterium w in severe sepsis.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Mycobacterium w (Mw), an immunomodulator in severe sepsis. ⋯ The use of Mw in severe sepsis was associated with significant reduction in days on mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital length of stay, lower incidence of nosocomial infection, and delta SOFA score.