-
Social awareness-based medicine
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):279-280
-
Surviving sepsis campaign: reflections and revisions
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):281-283
-
Clonidine associated to morphine and midazolam in children submitted to mechanical ventilation: randomized, double blind and placebo controlled study
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):284-291
Abstract
Clonidine associated to morphine and midazolam in children submitted to mechanical ventilation: randomized, double blind and placebo controlled study
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):284-291
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300003
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: In our country, the abstinence syndrome has high prevalence and besides the distress prolongs the length of hospital stay. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of associating oral clonidine to the intravenous morphine plus midazolam continuous infusion in children submitted to mechanical ventilation. METHODS: Randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study, conducted in the PICU at the Hospital Geral of Caxias do Sul. All children (1-36 months) submitted to mechanical ventilation over 12 hours (May-2005/August-2006), which had used intravenous morphine and midazolam continuous infusion were included. They were randomized to received clonidine (5 µg/kg) or placebo associated to the sedative continuous infusion. The infusion sedative doses were at the discretion of the assistant physician. The administered doses in the previous 24 hours and the doses of intermittent sedation were daily collected. The abstinence syndrome was defined based on Finnegan Score. The groups were compared regarding the cumulative doses of sedatives, length of use of sedative continuous infusion, presence and duration of the abstinence. RESULTS: Were included 69 patients (31 in the clonidine group and 38 in the placebo group). The two groups were similar regarding the general characteristics (weight, age, gender, indication of mechanical ventilation). The midazolam and morphine doses (cumulative and intermittent doses) were not different in both groups. Completed the study 59 patients, 25 in clonidine group and 34 in placebo group. The prevalence of the abstinence was similar (72% and 75%, respectively), without difference in the recovery time neither related to the length of mechanical ventilation. CONCLUSIONS: In children submitted to mechanical ventilation using high dose of opioids and diazepinic infusion the addiction of clonidine did not decrease the daily doses neither the cumulative doses and nevertheless reduced the prevalence and the evolution of abstinence syndrome.
-
Acute kidney injury by glycerol: antioxidant effect of Vitis vinifera L
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):292-296
Abstract
Acute kidney injury by glycerol: antioxidant effect of Vitis vinifera L
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):292-296
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300004
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is the most serious complication of rhabdomyolysis. In this syndrome, the delivery of heme pigment induces an injury that distinguishes itself by glomerular vasoconstriction and direct cellular toxicity with oxidative component. The renoprotection with antioxidants has demonstrated satisfactory effect. The proanthocyanidins are natural antioxidants found in the grape seed extract. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant effect of Vitis vinifera (grape seed extract) on the renal function of rats submitted to the injury by rhabdomyolysis. METHODS: Wistar rats, male, adults, weight ranging from 250-300g were used. The AKI was induced by intramuscular administration of glycerol 50%. The animals were distributed in 4 groups: Saline group (6 mL/kg of NaCl 0.9% intraperitoneal once a day), Glycerol group (6 mL/kg) of intramuscular glycerol each femoral region received 3 mL/kg of glycerol, once a day), Vitis vinifera group (3 mg/kg/day v.o by 5 days) and Glycerol + Vitis vinifera by 5 days before glycerol). RESULTS: Renal function (RF-creatinine clearance) and oxidative profile (urinary peroxides-FOX-2 and MDA-TBARS) were evaluted. The Glycerol group treated with Vitis vinifera has shown improvements in RF and reduction levels of lipid peroxidation. CONCLUSION: The results of this study have confirmed the antioxidant protection of Vitis vinifera in AKI induced by glycerol.
-
Association between phase angle, PRISM I and sepsis severity
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):297-303
Abstract
Association between phase angle, PRISM I and sepsis severity
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):297-303
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300005
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Phase angle (PA) is the difference between voltage and current and can be used as an indicator of body cell mass. Clinical studies show that low phase angle is associated with morbidity and mortality of critical patients. The purpose of this study was to know the relation between phase angle and the Pediatric Risk of Mortality I (PRISM I) score, associating this score with the severity of sepsis. METHODS: A transversal study was performed at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in Instituto Fernandes Figueira. The patients were classified according to age, gender, sepsis severity, cause of respiratory failure, PRISM I score, multiple organ dysfunction syndromes (MODS). Electrical bioimpedance analysis (BIA) was performed in all patients. Phase angle was calculated directly from reactance (Xc) and resistance (R). AF = arc-tangent reactance/resistance x 180º/Pi. RESULTS: 75 patients (68 septic) were evaluated. The incidence of septic shock was 39.7%, severe sepsis 42.6% and sepsis 17.6%. There was no significative statistical difference between the mean values of BIA and the categories of PRISM I, MODS, or the length of stay the PICU. The PA’s lowest values (1.5º-2.2º) were associated to the greatest PRISM’s scores (> 30%). CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric critical patients show low phase angle values, which might have prognostic implication.
-
Clinical-epidemiological characteristics of adults and aged interned in an intensive care unity of the Amazon (Rio Branco, Acre)
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):304-309
Abstract
Clinical-epidemiological characteristics of adults and aged interned in an intensive care unity of the Amazon (Rio Branco, Acre)
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):304-309
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300006
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The intensive care Medicine was initiated in the State of the Acre in 1998. The aim of the present study was to establish clinical-epidemiological characteristics of adults and aged interned in a public intensive care unit (ICU) in the Amazon. METHODS: In 2004, a prospective study evaluated patients interned through the application of a questionnaire containing socioeconomics variables, invasive procedures, mechanical ventilation, nutritional support, surgical interventions and dialitic treatment. The gravity was established by APACHE II applied after 24 hours of internment. The follow up continued until the final destination in the unit: discharge or death. The statistical analysis used program SPSS, considering differences significant when p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 79 patients were assessed; 67.1% men; 59.5% white; 59.5% married; 50.4% came from other hospitals; 41.8% from the interior and 13.9% from others States and country (Bolivia) in frontier. The age varied from 20 to 104 (53.3 ± 18.6) years old; 30 (36.1%) aged (60 y old or more); 35 (44.3%) in surgical treatment; the median APACHE II was 18.4 ± 9.1. The stay in the UCI was of 10.2 ± 9.6 days; death occurred in 30 (38%) patients. Association between mortality and dialitic treatment, clinical indication, mechanical ventilation, vasoactive therapy, number of surgical interventions, hypoalbuminemia, lymphocytopenia and gravity was observed. CONCLUSIONS: The admission of severely ill patients coming from all over the State of Acre and frontier regions reflects the lack of ICU beds in the region.
-
Cuff leak test preextubation: comparison between three methods in spontaneous ventilation
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):310-316
Abstract
Cuff leak test preextubation: comparison between three methods in spontaneous ventilation
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):310-316
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300007
Views0BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The cuff leak test aims to evaluate the presence of airway obstruction and normally is carried through in the controlled mode of mechanical ventilation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the cuff leak in patients breathing spontaneously, across three different methods, and to compare them. METHODS: Twenty intubated patients had been submitted to three different forms of cuff leak test, all of them in spontaneous respiration: measuring air leak buy using a ventilometer and with the patient connected to the mechanical ventilator (test 1); through the display of the mechanical ventilator (test 2); and with ventilometer and the patient detached from the mechanical ventilator (test 3). The air leak around the tracheal tube (TT) was defined as the percentage difference between the inspired tidal volume (insufflated cuff) and exhaled (deflated cuff). The air leak differences between the three tests were evaluated, as well as their correlations to three variables: cuff pressure, TT diameter and intubation time. RESULTS: Statistically significant (p < 0.05) air leak difference was observed between the tests 1 and 2 in relation to the test 3 in the general and regarding time intubation below 48h and cuff pressure below 20 cmH2O. Regarding the tube diameter, it had been difference only between tests 2 and 3 for 8.5 mm tubes. CONCLUSIONS: The cuff leak test in spontaneous ventilation seems to be more accurate when the patient is connected to the mechanical ventilator, and that additional studies are needed to determine the real contribution of the test in this ventilation mode to predict laryngeal edema.
Keywords:artificial ventilationcuff leak testlaryngeal edematracheal intubationventilatory function testsSee more -
Measurement of tube cuff pressure levels in intensive care unit: considerations on the benefits of training
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):317-321
Abstract
Measurement of tube cuff pressure levels in intensive care unit: considerations on the benefits of training
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):317-321
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300008
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The tube cuff pressure directly transmitted on the tracheal wall in an irregular form can cause injuries and lead to bronchoaspiration. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that the implementation of routine tube cuff pressure measurements result in a reliable control to maintain the measurements within the parameters considered safe, thus preventing the described complications. METHODS: A total of 3,195 tube cuff measurements were obtained from 1,194 male and female patients admitted at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Coronary Unit (CU), who were undergoing mechanical ventilation with endotracheal prosthesis and tracheotomy cannula, during the morning and afternoon periods. RESULTS: From March to August 2005 the follow-up of the measurements obtained by the physical therapy professionals was carried out and it was observed that the measurements were irregular, on average, in 80% of the cases. Thus, a training program was established, which was focused on the Nursing Teams of the ICU and CU, consisting in providing directions for the adequate procedures performed at the bedside (in loco training). The training procedures were carried out at two different periods (morning and afternoon) in order to include the whole team. CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested that it is necessary to monitor tube cuff pressure through the implementation of routine measurements in the morning, afternoon and evening periods as a prophylactic measure, in order to prevent the possible complications of tracheal prosthesis balloon pressure.
-
Agreement and correlation of pH, bicarbonate, base excess and lactate measurements in venous and arterial blood of premature and term infants
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):322-326
Abstract
Agreement and correlation of pH, bicarbonate, base excess and lactate measurements in venous and arterial blood of premature and term infants
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):322-326
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300009
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Determine the extent of agreement and correlation between arterial samples and venous (obtained from a venous umbilical catheter), with respect to measurements of pH, bicarbonate, base excess and lactate, in critically ill term and premature newborns. METHODS: Arterial blood samples (0.5-1 mL) were obtained for gas analysis by radial artery puncture, and, within the limit of 5 minutes, samples were obtained from venous umbilical catheters. Bland-Altman plots were used to depict agreement between arterial and venous measurements. Limits of agreement were defined as the mean difference ± 2SD (Standard Deviation). Correlation was assessed by Pearson’s method. RESULTS: A hundred and six samples (53 pairs) were taken from 53 patients for analysis of bicarbonate, pH and base excess. Lactate was analyzed in 49 pairs of samples. Differences were within the limits of agreement in 94.3% of pairs of samples for pH, and the same percentage was observed for bicarbonate. There was agreement in 96.2% of pairs for base excess, and in 91.8% for lactate. Mean differences were 0.03 units for pH, -1.2 mmol/L for bicarbonate, -0.24 mmol/L for base excess and 0.33 mmol/L for lactate. Pearson’s correlation coefficients (r) were 0.87 for pH, 0.76 for bicarbonate, 0.86 for base excess and 0.95 for lactate. CONCLUSIONS: Although single venous values cannot be used as equivalent to arterial for assessing acid base status in newborns, venous blood samples can be used serially for monitoring trends over time.
-
Nursing Activities Score: comparison among the Index APACHE II and the mortality in patients admitted in intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):327-330
Abstract
Nursing Activities Score: comparison among the Index APACHE II and the mortality in patients admitted in intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):327-330
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300010
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Searching the literature, we found no studies which correlate the NAS (Nursing Activities Score), who determines the real time of nursing evaluation and patient care, with mortality for prognostic index. The objectives this study were to know the values of the NAS score at ours service, try to find correlations between this values and the APACHE II index and to analyze the mortality rates with NAS scores. METHODS: This is a prospective ICU inpatient study from July to November/2005. Our data’s of the APACHE II score were recorded from the QuaTI system study. Qui-square test or equivalent was done to compare the proportions. For the analyses we utilized the EPI-INFO-6 software. RESULTS: The sample was 148 patients, mean age of 55.5 years with 59.4% males. The mean hospitalization time were 9.1 days, mortality rate of 29.7%, mean NAS score of 51.5% and mean APACHE II score of 13.4. There were a positive correlation ship between NAS and APACHE II index (R = 0.82). Selecting only the patients with NAS more than 51 we found that 41 in 83 died and 42 in 83 survived. Those whose NAS were under 51, only 3 in 65 died and 62 in 65 survived (p < 0.005), identifying an statistically significant group. CONCLUSIONS: In this study the mean value of NAS were 51.5%. There were good correlation with the APACHE II index and we shown that the mortality rate was high in the higher NAS values.
-
Comparison among three methods to measure the rapid shallow breathing index in patients submitted to weaning from mechanical ventilation
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):331-336
Abstract
Comparison among three methods to measure the rapid shallow breathing index in patients submitted to weaning from mechanical ventilation
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):331-336
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300011
Views0BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To compare the attainment of the rapid shallow breathing index (IRRS) in modalities PSV 10 cmH2O and PEEP 5 cmH2O (PSV10), CPAP 5 cmH2O (CPAP5) and spontaneous breathing (SB), correlating them with success on failure in the withdrawal of mechanical ventilation (MV). METHODS: Prospective study including 54 patients in MV > 48 hours, submitted to the IRRS in three ventilatory modalities: PSV10, CPAP5 and SB at the moments before and after T-tube spontaneous breathing. The patients were removed from MV when IRRS was < 105. RESULTS: There wasn't statistically significant difference between IRRS values at the moments before and after T-tube SB. There was statistically significant difference IRRS value between the modalities CPAP5 and PSV10 (p = 0.008), and between the modalities SB and PSV10 (p = 0.01) at the moment before T-Tube SB and of IRRS value, gotten between CPAP5 and PSV10 (p = 0.01) at the moment after T-tube SB. CONCLUSIONS: From this sample, it can be observed that IRRS values are overestimated when gotten in modality PSV10. It was also evidenced that there is no need of a 30 min T-tube SB before extubation, when the weaning is performed with the technique of gradual reduction of PSV. This study suggested that IRRS is able to predict weaning success; however it is not able to determine failure when it was < 105. It is recommended that IRRS must be analyzed in association with other predictive weaning parameters.
Keywords:mechanical ventilationpressure-support ventilationrapid shallow breathing indexT tubeWeaningSee more -
Evaluation of a prevention protocol of pressure ulcers
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):337-341
Abstract
Evaluation of a prevention protocol of pressure ulcers
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):337-341
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300012
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Pressure ulcers (PU) constitute an important health problem in particular in the intensive care unit (ICU). The objective of the study was to identify the number, degree and total score of PU on admission, ICU stay and discharge as well as to recognize factors influencing the appearance or development of PU and to identify the number of healed PU, thus so the incidence and prevalence. METHODS: All patients admitted > 24 hrs were prospectively included during one year. Seventy patients were excluded for insufficient data. The prevention protocol (Norton scale; positioning according the risk grade) and therapeutic protocol (hydrocolloid dressings; hydrogel dressings if tissue necrosis and/or devitalized and alginate dressings if ulcer bleeds) was applied to all patients. RESULTS: One hundred and fifty five patients were studied. Eighteen patients were admitted already with PU. During ICU stay, 40 patients developed a total of 125 PU. The prevalence of PU was 37.41% and incidence was 25.8%. The development of new PU occurred on average by the 7th day. Patients with PU presented 2.6 PU on the average. Seventy nine percent of the patients admitted in the ICU remained stable or improved. Patients admitted with PU had a SAPS 2 significantly higher than those without, 54 ± 8.7 and 44 ± 17, respectively (p = 0.015). At the day of discharge, patients classified as high risk had significantly more PU (p = 0.039). Non-survivors had significantly more PU than survivors (p < 0.001). Patients with longer ICU stay had more PU (p < 0.001) CONCLUSIONS: In our patient population we found 37.41% prevalence and 25.8% incidence of PU. The present prevention protocol of PU was effective in 79% of the patients; severely ill patients developed PU more frequently.
-
Prospective assessment of the occurrence of infection in critical patients in an intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):342-347
Abstract
Prospective assessment of the occurrence of infection in critical patients in an intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):342-347
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300013
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Care in the intensive care unit (ICU) is constantly challenged by infections related to invasive procedures, which result in increased morbidity and mortality, hospitalization term and costs. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate critical patients according to age, clinical conditions, hospitalization term, occurrence of hospital infection, topography of hospital infection, occurrence of microbial multi-resistance or not, use of invasive procedures and antimicrobial agents. METHODS: This is a prospective, observational, clinical research, carried out at an ICU between February and July 2006. The research subjects were critical patients hospitalized for more than 24 hours at the ICU, followed from admission until discharge, transference or death. RESULTS: The study group consisted of 71 patients with a mean age of 53.5 ± 18.75 years. Forty-seven of these patients (66.2%) acquired hospital infection. Twenty-nine infections (37.6%) occurred in the blood stream, 20 (26%) respiratory and 13 (16.9%) urinary. The most frequent multi-resistant strains were: 14 (10.85%) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 4 (3.1%) coagulase-negative Staphylococcus sp and 4 (3.1%) Staphylococcus aureus. The most used antimicrobial agents were carbapenem (22.4%), glycopeptides (21.6%) and cephalosporin (21.6%). Twenty-nine (40.8%) of these patients died. CONCLUSIONS: Hospital infection is aggravated if associated to the increased resistance of the microorganisms to the antibiotics.
-
Critical analysis of hospital surgical patients in intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):348-353
Abstract
Critical analysis of hospital surgical patients in intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):348-353
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300014
Views0BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Each intensive care units result has to be observed in the context of medical care, as well as the institution witch it belongs. There are many types of prognostic index in intensive care. The APACHE II was introduced by Knaus et al. in 1985, being a widely used system to evaluate the illness severity in intensive care patients. This objective was evaluated the prognostic index (APACHE II) in patients submitted to elective or emergency gastrointestinal surgery admitted to the ICU. METHODS: Medical school intensive care unit. It was collected the following data: age, sex, length of stay, intensive care indication, type of surgery (elective or emergency), body mass index (BMI) APACHE II and predicted mortality. RESULTS: A total of 38 patients data were collected during the period of April 2005 to April 2006. Eighteen patients died and twenty survived. The age of the non-survivors varied from 44 to 92 (mean age 66.6); while the age of the survivors varied from 28 to 78 (mean age 59. 1). The BMI of the non-survivors varied from 22 to 29 (mean body mass index 26) while in the other group the mean body mass index was 25. 6. No significant difference was noted in the age and body mass index of both groups. The length of stay varied from 2 to 52 days in the non-survivors group (mean 11.3 days), while in the survivors group varied from 1 to 30 days (mean 4.9). The APACHE II varied from 5 to 32 in the non-survivors group (mean 19.14). While in the survivors group varied from 1 to 18 (mean 8.6). The length of stay and APACHE II demonstrated a significant difference in both groups, being higher in the non-survivors group. The non-survivors predicted mortality varied from 3.1 to 84.9 (mean 38.8); while the survivors mean was 7.5. The Standardized Mortality Rate in this study was 1.22. CONCLUSIONS: Non-survivors patients APACHE II was higher than the survivors; the SMR was similar to others studies; the length of stay was longer in the non-survivors group; no statistic difference was noted in the body mass index.
Keywords:APACHE IIsurgical patientsSee more -
Brucella endocarditis: case report
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):354-356
Abstract
Brucella endocarditis: case report
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):354-356
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300015
Views0BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Endocarditis is a rare and serious complication of human brucellosis. The diagnosis is suspected in cases of endocarditis without response to conservative antibiotic treatment and it is confirmed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test, titers being higher than 1:160. The treatment is usually a surgery, followed with antibiotics for long period of time. Some cases can be cured with antibiotic treatment only, with antibiotics such as doxiciclin, rifampicin, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin and tetracycline. We present a case report of a patient with brucellose endocarditis. CASE REPORT: Fifty one year old male patient, a farmer, was admitted with clinical history of fever and weight loss. Echocardiography showed thickening and vegetation on the aortic valve and blood culture was positive for Staphylococcus epidermidis. The treatment with crystal penicillin and garamycin was initiated with no improval during three weeks. Endocarditis caused by human brucellosis was suspected and a new treatment with rifampicin and ciprofloxacin, associated with vancomycin because of the first blood culture, was initiated. Agglutination sorology was positive for brucellosis, with titers of 1:360. The patient got better with new treatment and was dismissed from the intensive care unit clinically stable, taking ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. CONCLUSIONS: Endocarditis caused by human brucellosis is rare; however it should always be considered when conservative antibiotic treatment fails, especially in patients that have contact with animals and dairy products.
Keywords:brucellosisendocarditisSee more -
Thematic series: end-of-life care and the terminally ill patient at the intensive care unit
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):357-358
-
Terminal ill children and dnd-of-life practices in the pediatric intensive care units
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):359-363
Abstract
Terminal ill children and dnd-of-life practices in the pediatric intensive care units
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):359-363
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300017
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze and discuss the medical practices related to the end-of-life care provided to children admitted to pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in Brazil and in some countries located in the northern hemisphere. CONTENTS: Selected articles on end-of-life care published during the last years searching the PubMed, MedLine and LILACS database, with special interest on studies of death conducted in pediatric intensive care units in Brazil, Latin America, Europe and North America, using the following key words: death, bioethics, PICU, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and life support limitation (LSL). CONCLUSIONS: In North America and North Europe, the incidence of LSL is greater (60%-80%) than in south Europe and Latin America (30%-40%). In Brazil the incidence of LSL depends on the region and in the last decade it is increasing from 6% to 40%; being the do-not-reanimated order the most frequent mode of LSL. The family participation in the decision making process is not stimulated and incipient. Based on the literature review and on their experience the authors present the measures that they consider most efficient and recommended for managing this situation in our region. Despite of LSL in children with terminal and irreversible disease be considered ethically, morally and legally; these measures are still adopted in a very few circumstances in our region. Urgent changes in this behavior are necessary, specially related to family participation in the decision-making process.
-
Family participation in the decision making process for life support limitation: paternalism, beneficence and omission
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):364-368
Abstract
Family participation in the decision making process for life support limitation: paternalism, beneficence and omission
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):364-368
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300018
Views0BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze and discuss the medical aspects related to the family involvement in the decision making process regarding end of life care to children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). CONTENTS: The authors selected articles on end-of-life care published during the last years searching the PubMed, MedLine and LILACS database, with special interest on studies of death conducted in pediatric intensive care units in Brazil, Latin America, Europe and North America, using the following keywords: death, bioethics, PICU, decision-making, terminal care, parents interview and life support limitation (LSL). CONCLUSIONS: Several studies have demonstrated the relevance of the family participation in the decision making process regarding LSL. In our region the family participation in this process is not stimulated and valued, ranging from 20%-55%. The authors present a practical sequence for discussing and defining LSL with the families. Despite of the family participation in the decision making process for LSL be legally, morally and ethically accepted in developed countries, this approach is adopted in a very few cases in our region. To explain this difficulty observed among the Brazilian pediatric intensivist, some studies should be conducted in our region.
Keywords:bioethicsDeathDecision Makingparents interview and life support limitationpediatric intensive care unitSee more -
Use of the intravenous and nebulized magnesium sulfate for the treatment of the acute asthma in the emergence
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):369-373
Abstract
Use of the intravenous and nebulized magnesium sulfate for the treatment of the acute asthma in the emergence
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):369-373
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300019
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Magnesium sulfate has been shown to benefit asthmatic children and adults with poor responses to initial beta-agonist therapy and systemic corticoids in the emergency department. The aim of this study was to realize a no systematic review about the treatment of the acute asthma with intravenous and nebulized magnesium sulfate in the emergence. CONTENTS: The first investigations that demonstrate the benefit in the use of the magnesium sulfate in asthma date to 1938. The effects of magnesium sulfate may be mediated through its action as a calcium antagonist or through its function as a cofactor in enzyme systems involving ion flux across cell membranes. We realized a literature review using MedLine database of the last six years (2000 to 2006). Articles published in English were included by the crossing of keywords asthma and magnesium sulfate. CONCLUSIONS: The routine administration of intravenous and nebulized magnesium sulfate to severely ill patients with acute asthma presents in the emergence department is not recommended, however as an adjunct therapy brings some benefit.
-
Mechanical ventilation in the acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):374-383
Abstract
Mechanical ventilation in the acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):374-383
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300020
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The II Brazilian Consensus Conference on Mechanical Ventilation was published in 2000. Knowledge on the field of mechanical ventilation evolved rapidly since then, with the publication of numerous clinical studies with potential impact on the ventilatory management of critically ill patients. Moreover, the evolving concept of evidence – based medicine determined the grading of clinical recommendations according to the methodological value of the studies on which they are based. This explicit approach has broadened the understanding and adoption of clinical recommendations. For these reasons, AMIB – Associação de Medicina Intensiva Brasileira and SBPT – Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisiologia – decided to update the recommendations of the II Brazilian Consensus. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) has been one of the updated topics. This objective was described the most important topics related to mechanical ventilation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome. METHODS: Systematic review of the published literature and gradation of the studies in levels of evidence, using the key words mechanical ventilation and acute respiratory distress syndrome. RESULTS: Recommendations on the use of lung protective strategies during mechanical ventilation based on reduced tidal volumes and limitation of plateau pressure. The state of the art of recruitment maneuvers and PEEP titration is also discussed. CONCLUSIONS: The mechanical ventilation of patients with ADRS changed in the last few years. We presented the role of lung protective strategies that could be applied to these patients.
-
Mechanical ventilation of weaning interruption
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):384-392
Abstract
Mechanical ventilation of weaning interruption
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):384-392
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300021
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The II Brazilian Consensus Conference on Mechanical Ventilation was published in 2000. Knowledge on the field of mechanical ventilation evolved rapidly since then, with the publication of numerous clinical studies with potential impact on the ventilatory management of critically ill patients. Moreover, the evolving concept of evidence – based medicine determined the grading of clinical recommendations according to the methodological value of the studies on which they are based. This explicit approach has broadened the understanding and adoption of clinical recommendations. For these reasons, AMIB – Associação de Medicina Intensiva Brasileira and SBPT – Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisiologia – decided to update the recommendations of the II Brazilian Consensus. Weaning from mechanical ventilation has been one of the updated topics. This objective was described the most important topics related to weaning from mechanical ventilation. METHODS: Systematic review of the published literature and gradation of the studies in levels of evidence, using the keywords weaning and mechanical ventilation. RESULTS: Recommendations on the weaning from mechanical ventilation and how to select patients applying weaning protocols and spontaneous breathing test. CONCLUSIONS: Weaning is a very important period of mechanical ventilatory support. Weaning protocols are recommended to select patients ready to be extubated.
-
Intraoperative mechanical ventilation
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):393-398
Abstract
Intraoperative mechanical ventilation
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):393-398
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300022
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The II Brazilian Consensus Conference on Mechanical Ventilation was published in 2000. Knowledge on the field of mechanical ventilation evolved rapidly since then, with the publication of numerous clinical studies with potential impact on the ventilatory management of critically ill patients. Moreover, the evolving concept of evidence – based Medicine determined the grading of clinical recommendations according to the methodological value of the studies on which they are based. This explicit approach has broadened the understanding and adoption of clinical recommendations. For these reasons, AMIB – Associação de Medicina Intensiva Brasileira and SBPT – Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisiologia – decided to update the recommendations of the II Brazilian Consensus. Intraoperative mechanical ventilation has been one of the updated topics. This objective was described the most important topics on the intraoperative mechanical ventilation. METHODS: Systematic review of the published literature and gradation of the studies in levels of evidence, using the key words: mechanical ventilation, intraoperative and anesthesia. RESULTS: Recommendations on how to prevent pulmonary complications during anesthesia/postoperative period and which are the best intraoperative ventilatory techniques. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary atelectasis is a common complication observed in the postoperative period, thus ventilatory techniques has been adapted to prevent these complications.
-
Physiotherapy on the mechanically ventilated patients
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):399-407
Abstract
Physiotherapy on the mechanically ventilated patients
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):399-407
DOI 10.1590/S0103-507X2007000300023
Views0See moreBACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The II Brazilian Consensus Conference on Mechanical Ventilation was published in 2000. Knowledge on the field of mechanical ventilation evolved rapidly since then, with the publication of numerous clinical studies with potential impact on the ventilatory management of critically ill patients. Moreover, the evolving concept of evidence – based medicine determined the grading of clinical recommendations according to the methodological value of the studies on which they are based. This explicit approach has broadened the understanding and adoption of clinical recommendations. For these reasons, AMIB – Associação de Medicina Intensiva Brasileira and SBPT – Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisiologia – decided to update the recommendations of the II Brazilian Consensus. Physical therapy during mechanical ventilation has been one of the updated topics. This objective was described the most important topics on the physical therapy during mechanical ventilation. METHODS: Systematic review of the published literature and gradation of the studies in levels of evidence, using the key words: mechanical ventilation and physical therapy. RESULTS: Recommendations on the most important techniques applied during mechanical ventilation. CONCLUSIONS: Physical therapy has a central role at the Intensive Care environment, mainly in patients submitted to a mechanical ventilatory support invasive or non invasive.
-
BRICNet, a collaborative brazilian network to conduct and to promote multicenter studies in intensive care
Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2007;19(3):408-408