Glutamine, Antioxidants No Benefit to Critically Ill Patients
For critically ill patients with multiorgan failure, early supplementation with glutamine or antioxidants does not improve clinical outcomes, according to a study published in the April 18 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Ambrisentan Not Effective in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
The endothelin A receptor-selective antagonist ambrisentan is not effective for reducing the rate of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) progression, according to a study published in the May 7 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
FDA Approves Kcentra to Reverse Anticoagulation
Kcentra (prothrombin complex concentrate, human) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat severe acute bleeding in adults after administration of warfarin and similar products.
Device Detects Blood Fungal Infections Rapidly
A small, portable device can detect Candida bloodstream infection, an often fatal fungal bloodstream infection, rapidly and accurately, according to a study published in the April 24 issue of Science Translational Medicine.
Set The Stage For Ventilator Settings
Nursing Made Incredibly Easy!, May/June 2013Are you puzzled by ventilator modes? This article will help you differentiate between invasive and noninvasive ventilation and understand the common settings for each.
Chest Tubes in the Critically Ill Patient
Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing, June 2013This article is meant as a review for critical care nurses caring for patients with chest tubes. The types of chest tubes, equipment needed, types of chest drainage systems, chest tube placement and setup, nursing care, chest tube removal, and complications will be discussed.
A Vulnerable Population: Families of Patients in Adult Critical Care
AACN Advanced Critical Care, June 2013Families of patients in adult critical care are susceptible to physiological symptoms, emotional distress, persuasion, burden, and postintensive care syndrome-family, as defined by the Society of Critical Care Medicine. The authors present resources and recommendations that could reduce risks and promote the health of this vulnerable population.
Critically Ill and Septic Patient: Is Red Blood Cell Transfusion Adding to the Domino Effect?
Journal of Infusion Nursing, April 2013 This article discusses recent literature addressing red cell transfusion in critically ill and septic patients and discusses general guidelines for red cell transfusion in this patient population.
Evaluation of a Nurse-Led Safety Program in a Critical Care Unit
Journal of Nursing Care Quality, June 2013This implementation of a formalized safety program in a critical care unit highlights the importance of the "voice of the caregiver," as it relates to patient safety. This nurse-led program featured executive walkrounds and a multidisciplinary core team whose goal was to prioritize and resolve safety issues.