Intensive care for the adult population in Ireland: a multicentre study of intensive care population demographics
2008

Intensive Care Population in Ireland

Sample size: 1029 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): B Marsh, D McAuley, M Sheridan, M Donnelly, R Bailie, M Power, P Seigne, S Austin, C Motherway, M Scully, C Fagan, P Benson, J Trinder, J Bates, K Bailie

Primary Institution: Irish Critical Care Trials Group

Hypothesis

What are the demographics and outcomes of the intensive care population in Ireland?

Conclusion

The study found that intensive care in Ireland serves a population with a high need for mechanical ventilation and multiple organ support, with mortality rates that compare favorably to international benchmarks.

Supporting Evidence

  • Emergency admissions accounted for 70% of ICU episodes.
  • The mean length of ICU stay was 5.7 days.
  • Severe sepsis was identified in 35% of patients.
  • Mechanical ventilation was used in 70.7% of patients.
  • The overall ICU mortality rate was 19%.

Takeaway

This study looked at patients in intensive care units in Ireland and found that many of them needed help with breathing and had serious health issues, but the death rate was lower than in other countries.

Methodology

A prospective observational study conducted over 10 weeks across 14 ICUs in Ireland, collecting data on patient demographics and organ failure.

Potential Biases

Reliance on principal investigators for data accuracy may introduce bias.

Limitations

Not all ICUs participated, and some data were missing due to non-compliance with data collection requirements.

Participant Demographics

Mean age of patients was 57 years, with 62% male.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/cc7018

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