Chest radiography practice in critically ill patients: a postal survey in the Netherlands
2006

Chest Radiography Practices in Dutch ICUs

Sample size: 41 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Marleen E Graat, Karin A Hendrikse, Peter E Spronk, Johanna C Korevaar, Jaap Stoker, Marcus J Schultz

Primary Institution: Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam

Hypothesis

What are the current practices regarding chest radiography in intensive care units in the Netherlands?

Conclusion

There is notable lack of consensus on chest radiography practice in the Netherlands, with many intensivists doubting the value of daily-routine chest radiography while still practicing it.

Supporting Evidence

  • 63% of responding ICUs practice a daily-routine strategy for chest radiographs.
  • Daily-routine chest radiography is less common in university-affiliated ICUs compared to non-academic ICUs.
  • 81% of ICUs consider chest radiographs essential for verifying the position of invasive devices.

Takeaway

Doctors in intensive care units in the Netherlands often take chest X-rays every day, but many think it's not really helpful.

Methodology

A postal survey was conducted among non-pediatric ICUs with more than 5 beds suitable for mechanical ventilation.

Potential Biases

The anonymity of the survey may have influenced the responses.

Limitations

The survey only reflects the opinions of ICU directors and may not represent all intensivists' views.

Participant Demographics

41 ICUs participated, including academic and non-academic hospitals.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p>0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2342-6-8

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