Crit Care Resusc
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Comparative Study
Measuring visceral fat, subcutaneous fat and skeletal muscle area changes by computed tomography in acute pancreatitis: a retrospective, single-centre study.
To show that body composition of intensive care unit patients can be analysed with existing computed tomography (CT) images. We planned to describe changes in visceral fat area (VFA), subcutaneous fat area (SFA) and muscle area (MA) on analysis of specific CT images during acute pancreatitis requiring an ICU admission. ⋯ The body composition of ICU patients can be analysed through existing CT images. Pancreatitis requiring ICU admission causes a 12% decrease in VFA.
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Comparative Study
Improved consistency in interpretation and management of cardiovascular variables by intensive care staff using a computerised decision-support system.
To investigate the potential of a computerised decision-support system (CDSS) to improve consistency of haemodynamic evaluation and treatment suggestions by intensive care unit clinical staff with different levels of expertise and experience. ⋯ Use of a CDSS significantly improved the consistency between categories of clinical ICU staff in assessing the cardiovascular status and making management decisions in postoperative cardiac surgery patients.
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
A brief review of recent trends in Victorian intensive care, 2000-2011.
Review of resource use and patient outcomes of intensive care unit services over time provides insights into service delivery and safety. ⋯ There was an increase in ICU resource availability and evidence of improvement in hospital survival, suggesting improved quality of care. These evaluation methods may be useful in monitoring statewide capacity, service delivery and patient safety.