Medicina intensiva
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Monitoring during mechanical ventilation allows the measurement of different parameters of respiratory mechanics. Accurate interpretation of these data can be useful for characterizing the situation of the different components of the respiratory system, and for guiding ventilator settings. In this review, we describe the basic concepts of respiratory mechanics, their interpretation, and their potential use in fine-tuning mechanical ventilation.
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A study was made of the epidemiological data of sepsis requiring admission to the ICU in patients over 65 years of age, with an evaluation of independent predictors of survival at 2 years. ⋯ Sepsis showed different demographic characteristics and clinical presentations in the elderly. In the aging cohort, after adjusting for potential confounders, inadequate empirical antimicrobial therapy was associated to a 2-fold decrease in survival at two years.
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Ultrasound has become an essential tool in assisting critically ill patients. His knowledge, use and instruction requires a statement by scientific societies involved in its development and implementation. ⋯ Training and learning requires a structured process within the specialty. The SEMICYUC must agree to disclose this document, build relationships with other scientific societies and give legal cover through accreditation of the training units, training courses and different levels of training.
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Observational Study
Risk factors for the deterioration of quality of life in critical trauma patients. Assessment at 6 and 12 months after discharge from the intensive care unit.
To evaluate factors influencing the deterioration of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in trauma patients admitted to an ICU. ⋯ Patients showed marked deterioration of their HRQoL at 6 months, followed by overall improvement at 12 months, though without reaching their previous state. The factors that determine poorer quality of life include age, severity, previous HRQoL, and severe injuries in the extremities.