Impact of Adverse Events in ICU on Hospital Stay and Mortality
Author Information
Author(s): Forster Alan J, Kyeremanteng Kwadwo, Hooper Jon, Shojania Kaveh G, Walraven Carl
Primary Institution: University of Ottawa
Hypothesis
What is the independent influence of ICU-based adverse events on in-hospital mortality and hospital length of stay?
Conclusion
ICU-based adverse events significantly increase hospital length of stay but are not significantly associated with in-hospital mortality.
Supporting Evidence
- 20% of ICU patients experienced an adverse event.
- Adverse events were independently associated with an average increase in hospital length of stay of 31 days.
- Preventable adverse events occurred in 10% of patients.
Takeaway
When patients in the ICU have problems caused by their treatment, they often have to stay in the hospital much longer, but it doesn't necessarily mean they will die from it.
Methodology
Prospective cohort study in an academic tertiary-care ICU with daily monitoring for adverse clinical occurrences.
Potential Biases
Some reviewers were involved in patient care, which could influence their assessment of adverse events.
Limitations
The study focused only on ICU patients, which may not represent other hospital areas, and had a relatively small sample size.
Participant Demographics
Predominantly male, elderly, with 81% requiring mechanical ventilation; median age 66 years.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 19%–31%
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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