Care of Terminally Ill Cancer Patients: An Intensivist’s Dilemma
Author Information
Author(s): Bajwa Sukhminder Jit Singh, Bajwa Sukhwinder Kaur, Kaur Jasbir
Primary Institution: Gian Sagar Medical College & Hospital, Ram Nagar, Banur, Punjab, India
Hypothesis
To evaluate the benefits of intensive care treatment in terminally ill cancer patients and also to find out whether optimal utilization of critical care resources has got any positive financial, psychological and clinical outcome.
Conclusion
ICU care is the best form of treatment for terminally ill patients, but resources should be used optimally to avoid sacrificing deserving patients.
Supporting Evidence
- 64.15% of patients required mechanical ventilation.
- 79.24% of patients needed ionotropic support.
- Mortality increased significantly with the number of organ systems involved.
Takeaway
This study looked at how intensive care can help very sick cancer patients, but it also showed that we need to be careful about how we use our resources.
Methodology
A retrospective evaluation of 53 terminally ill cancer patients admitted to the ICU was conducted, with data compiled and analyzed statistically.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in patient selection and reporting of outcomes.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may not account for all variables affecting patient outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Patients had a mean age of 58.18 years, with a mix of educational and financial backgrounds, and included both rural and urban residents.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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