scholarly journals The effect of vitamin K on prothrombin time in critically ill patients: an observational registry study

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sofia Dahlberg ◽  
Ulf Schött ◽  
Thomas Kander

Abstract Background Previous studies have indicated that vitamin K deficiency is common in non-bleeding critically ill patients with slightly prolonged prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR). It has never been investigated thoroughly whether the administration of vitamin K to these patients could affect their PT-INR. Therefore, the aim of this registry study was to evaluate changes in PT-INR in response to vitamin K in critically ill patients with PT-INR in the range of 1.3–1.9. Methods Patients admitted to a mixed 9-bed general intensive care unit at a University Hospital, between 2013 and 2019 (n = 4541) with a PT-INR between 1.3 and 1.9 at any time during the stay were identified. Patients who received vitamin K with appropriate sampling times for PT-INR and without exclusion criteria were matched with propensity score to patients from the same cohort who did not receive vitamin K (controls). PT-INR was measured at admission, within 12 h before vitamin K administration and 12–36 h following vitamin K administration. Exclusion criteria included pre-existing liver cirrhosis, any plasma or platelet transfusion, or > 1 unit red blood cell transfusion between PT-INR samplings. Results Propensity score matching resulted in two groups of patients with 129 patients in each group. PT-INR decreased in both groups (1.4 [1.3–1.4] in the vitamin K group and 1.4 [1.3–1.6] in the controls, p < 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively). The decrease in PT-INR was slightly more pronounced in patients who received vitamin K (delta PT-INR − 0.10 [− 0.30 to − 0.10] in the vitamin K group and − 0.10 [− 0.20 to 0.10] in the controls, p = 0.01). Conclusion In critically ill patients with a PT-INR of 1.3–1.9, the administration of vitamin K resulted in a slightly larger decrease of PT-INR 12–36 h after administration compared to controls. Future studies should focus on identifying which patient populations may benefit most from vitamin K administration as well as whether vitamin K could be a better alternative than plasma or prothrombin complex concentrate to improve PT-INR before non-emergent invasive procedures.

Antibiotics ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (10) ◽  
pp. 647
Author(s):  
Wasan Katip ◽  
Suriyon Uitrakul ◽  
Peninnah Oberdorfer

Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB), an important nosocomial pathogen, occurs particularly in the intensive care unit (ICU). Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of documented treatment with colistin monotherapy versus colistin plus meropenem in critically ill patients with CRAB infections at Chiang Mai University Hospital (CMUH). We conducted a retrospective cohort study of critically ill patients with CRAB infections in an ICU from 2015 to 2017, who received colistin monotherapy versus colistin plus meropenem. After propensity score matching, an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of a 30-day mortality rate in patients who received colistin plus meropenem was 0.43 compared to those who received colistin monotherapy (95% CI, 0.23–0.82, p = 0.01). aORs of clinical response and microbiological response were also higher in patients who received colistin plus meropenem (1.81, 95% CI 1.01–3.26, p = 0.048 and 2.08, 95% CI 1.11–3.91, p = 0.023, respectively). There was no significant difference in nephrotoxicity (aOR, 0.76, 95% CI, 0.43–1.36, p = 0.363) between colistin monotherapy and colistin plus meropenem. In conclusion, the addition of meropenem to colistin caused a reduction in 30-day mortality, higher clinical and microbiological responses, and did not increase nephrotoxicity compared to colistin monotherapy. Furthermore, 30-day mortality was significantly related with age, receiving vasopressor, having malignancy, and the APACHE II score.


Pharmaceutics ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 162
Author(s):  
Wasan Katip ◽  
Peninnah Oberdorfer

Acinetobacter baumannii has emerged as a significant concern worldwide. The mortality rate of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) is increasing, especially in the intensive care unit (ICU). Thus, the objective of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of colistin plus vancomycin for the treatment of critically ill patients with CRAB in Chiang Mai University Hospital. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of critically ill patients in the ICU with CRAB infection who received colistin alone or colistin-vancomycin combination therapy at Chiang Mai University Hospital. A total of 365 critically ill patients met the inclusion criteria. The results in this study showed that after propensity score matching, colistin plus vancomycin showed no significant differences in the 30-day mortality compared to colistin alone. Likewise, for colistin plus vancomycin, compared with colistin therapy alone, there were no significant differences in the clinical response, microbiological response and nephrotoxicity. In conclusion, colistin plus vancomycin was no significant differences in 30-day mortality, clinical response, microbiological response compared to colistin alone for infections due to CRAB. The nephrotoxicity rates were similar for both groups, so colistin combination with vancomycin was not necessary for the management of infection caused by CRAB.


2021 ◽  
Vol 27 ◽  
pp. 107602962110509
Author(s):  
Khalid Al Sulaiman ◽  
Mashael Al Mutairi ◽  
Omar Al Harbi ◽  
Alanoud Al Duraihim ◽  
Sara Aldosary ◽  
...  

Background Using vitamin K for correction of coagulopathy in critically ill patients is controversial with limited evidence. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of vitamin K in the correction of international normalized ratio (INR) elevation secondary to liver disease in critically ill patients. Method A retrospective study of critically ill patients with coagulopathy secondary to liver disease. The primary outcome was to evaluate the association between vitamin K administration and the incidence of new bleeding events in critically ill patients with INR elevation; other outcomes were considered secondary. Patients were categorized into two groups based on vitamin K administration to correct INR elevation. The propensity score was generated based on disease severity scores and the use of pharmacological DVT prophylaxis. Results A total of 98 patients were included in the study. Forty-seven patients (48%) received vitamin K during the study period. The odds of the new bleeding event was not statistically different between groups (OR 2.4, 95% CI 0.28-21.67, P = .42). Delta of INR reduction was observed with a median of 0.63 when the first dose is given ( P-value: <.0001). However the INR reduction with other subsequent doses of vitamin K was not statistically significant. Conclusion The administration of vitamin K for INR correction in critically ill patients with coagulopathy secondary to liver disease was not associated with a lower odds of new bleeding events. Further studies are needed to assess the value of vitamin K administration in critically ill patients with liver diseases related coagulopathy.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Christina Scharf ◽  
Ines Schroeder ◽  
Michael Paal ◽  
Martin Winkels ◽  
Michael Irlbeck ◽  
...  

Abstract Background A cytokine storm is life threatening for critically ill patients and is mainly caused by sepsis or severe trauma. In combination with supportive therapy, the cytokine adsorber Cytosorb® (CS) is increasingly used for the treatment of cytokine storm. However, it is questionable whether its use is actually beneficial in these patients. Methods Patients with an interleukin-6 (IL-6) > 10,000 pg/ml were retrospectively included between October 2014 and May 2020 and were divided into two groups (group 1: CS therapy; group 2: no CS therapy). Inclusion criteria were a regularly measured IL-6 and, for patients allocated to group 1, CS therapy for at least 90 min. A propensity score (PS) matching analysis with significant baseline differences as predictors (Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) II, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, renal replacement therapy, IL-6, lactate and norepinephrine demand) was performed to compare both groups (adjustment tolerance: < 0.05; standardization tolerance: < 10%). U-test and Fisher’s-test were used for independent variables and the Wilcoxon test was used for dependent variables. Results In total, 143 patients were included in the initial evaluation (group 1: 38; group 2: 105). Nineteen comparable pairings could be formed (mean initial IL-6: 58,385 vs. 59,812 pg/ml; mean SAPS II: 77 vs. 75). There was a significant reduction in IL-6 in patients with (p < 0.001) and without CS treatment (p = 0.005). However, there was no significant difference (p = 0.708) in the median relative reduction in both groups (89% vs. 80%). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the relative change in C-reactive protein, lactate, or norepinephrine demand in either group and the in-hospital mortality was similar between groups (73.7%). Conclusion Our study showed no difference in IL-6 reduction, hemodynamic stabilization, or mortality in patients with Cytosorb® treatment compared to a matched patient population.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kevin Roedl ◽  
Dominik Jarczak ◽  
Andreas Drolz ◽  
Dominic Wichmann ◽  
Olaf Boenisch ◽  
...  

Abstract Background SARS-CoV-2 caused a pandemic and global threat for human health. Presence of liver injury was commonly reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, reports on severe liver dysfunction (SLD) in critically ill with COVID-19 are lacking. We evaluated the occurrence, clinical characteristics and outcome of SLD in critically ill patients with COVID-19. Methods Clinical course and laboratory was analyzed from all patients with confirmed COVID-19 admitted to ICU of the university hospital. SLD was defined as: bilirubin ≥ 2 mg/dl or elevation of aminotransferase levels (> 20-fold ULN). Results 72 critically ill patients were identified, 22 (31%) patients developed SLD. Presenting characteristics including age, gender, comorbidities as well as clinical presentation regarding COVID-19 overlapped substantially in both groups. Patients with SLD had more severe respiratory failure (paO2/FiO2: 82 (58–114) vs. 117 (83–155); p < 0.05). Thus, required more frequently mechanical ventilation (95% vs. 64%; p < 0.01), rescue therapies (ECMO) (27% vs. 12%; p = 0.106), vasopressor (95% vs. 72%; p < 0.05) and renal replacement therapy (86% vs. 30%; p < 0.001). Severity of illness was significantly higher (SAPS II: 48 (39–52) vs. 40 (32–45); p < 0.01). Patients with SLD and without presented viremic during ICU stay in 68% and 34%, respectively (p = 0.002). Occurrence of SLD was independently associated with presence of viremia [OR 6.359; 95% CI 1.336–30.253; p < 0.05] and severity of illness (SAPS II) [OR 1.078; 95% CI 1.004–1.157; p < 0.05]. Mortality was high in patients with SLD compared to other patients (68% vs. 16%, p < 0.001). After adjustment for confounders, SLD was independently associated with mortality [HR3.347; 95% CI 1.401–7.999; p < 0.01]. Conclusion One-third of critically ill patients with COVID-19 suffer from SLD, which is associated with high mortality. Occurrence of viremia and severity of illness seem to contribute to occurrence of SLD and underline the multifactorial cause.


2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 72
Author(s):  
Mohamed E. Abdelgawad ◽  
Nadia T. Ahmed ◽  
Ahmed M. Elmenshawy

Background and objective: Electrolyte disturbances remain a common lifesaving issue in the intensive care units. They are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. They are mostly resulted secondary to critical illness itself or associated treatment modalities. Therefore, electrolytes repletion should be done effectively and timely. This could be ensured using nurse driven protocols rather than traditional methods of repletion. These protocols are nurse initiated and collaboratively developed. They have been shown to improve patient care outcomes through the provision of high quality care. They are increasingly being used in the critical care setting. Objective: Determine the effect of applying nurses driven electrolytes repletion protocol on electrolytes disturbance control among critically ill patients.Methods: Quasi experimental research design was used. Sixty two critically ill patients with electrolytes loss were enrolled in the study at Alexandria Main University Hospital intensive care units, Egypt. All episodes of electrolyte loss were evaluated. Repletion of electrolyte loss was done according to unit routine for the control group and nurses driven electrolytes repletion protocol for the study group. Episodes of electrolyte disturbances, adverse events and timing of repletion were evaluated.Results: Neurological disorders represent the most encountered diagnosis. The most common cause of electrolyte loss in was the use of diuretics. Furthermore, there was a highly statistical difference between the two groups as regard electrolytes levels, effectiveness and timing of replacement.Conclusions: Application of nurses driven electrolyte repletion protocol resulted in improvements in the effectiveness and timeliness of electrolyte replacement.


2010 ◽  
Vol 44 (4) ◽  
pp. 1039-1045 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aretha Pereira de Oliveira ◽  
Dalmo Valério Machado de Lima

This is a participant study, quasi-experimental, of a before and after type. A quantitative approach of biophysiological measures was used, represented by the saturation of oxygen measured by pulse oximeter (SpO2), and recorded on three occasions: before, during and after the bedbath in critically ill patients hospitalized at the ICU of a University Hospital in Brazil. Objective: to compare the SpO2 in various stages of the bath, with and without control of water temperature. Data collection was performed between December 2007 and April 2008 on a convenience sample consisting of 30 patients aged over 18 who had classification in TISS-28 from level II. Results show that water temperature control means a lower variation of SpO2 (p<0.05). No marked differences in variation of saturation between men and women or between age groups were established. In conclusion, heated and constant water temperature during the bedbath is able to minimize the fall of SpO2 that occurs while handling patients during procedures.


2018 ◽  
Vol 108 (5) ◽  
pp. 988-996 ◽  
Author(s):  
Y M Arabi ◽  
H M Al-Dorzi ◽  
S Mehta ◽  
H M Tamim ◽  
S H Haddad ◽  
...  

ABSTRACT Background The optimal amount of protein intake in critically ill patients is uncertain. Objective In this post hoc analysis of the PermiT (Permissive Underfeeding vs. Target Enteral Feeding in Adult Critically Ill Patients) trial, we tested the hypothesis that higher total protein intake was associated with lower 90-d mortality and improved protein biomarkers in critically ill patients. Design In this post hoc analysis of the PermiT trial, we included patients who received enteral feeding for ≥3 consecutive days. Using the median protein intake of the cohort as a cutoff, patients were categorized into 2 groups: a higher-protein group (>0.80 g · kg–1 · d–1) and a lower-protein group (≤0.80 g · kg–1 · d–1). We developed a propensity score for receiving higher protein. Primary outcome was 90-d mortality. We also compared serial values of prealbumin, transferrin, 24-h urinary nitrogen, and 24-h nitrogen balance on days 1, 7, and 14. Results Among the 729 patients included in this analysis, the average protein intake was 0.8 ± 0.3 g · kg–1 · d–1 [1.0 ± 0.2 g · kg–1 · d–1 in the higher-protein group (n = 365) and 0.6 ± 0.2 g · kg–1 · d–1 in the lower-protein group (n = 364); P < 0.0001]. There was no difference in 90-d mortality between the 2 groups [88/364 (24.2%) compared with 94/363 (25.9%), propensity score–adjusted OR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.56, 1.16; P = 0.24]. Higher protein intake was associated with an increase in 24-h urea nitrogen excretion compared with lower protein intake, but without a significant change in prealbumin, transferrin, or 24-h nitrogen balance. Conclusions In the PermiT trial, a moderate difference in protein intake was not associated with lower mortality. Higher protein intake was associated with increased nitrogen excretion in the urine without a corresponding change in prealbumin, transferrin, or nitrogen balance. Protein intake needs to be tested in adequately powered randomized controlled trials targeting larger differences in protein intake in high-risk populations.


Author(s):  
Roberto de la Rica ◽  
Marcio Borges ◽  
María Aranda ◽  
Alberto del Castillo ◽  
Antonia Socias ◽  
...  

ABSTRACTOBJECTIVETo describe the clinical characteristics and epidemiological features of severe (non-ICU) and critically patients (ICU) with COVID-19 at triage, prior hospitalization, in one of the main hospitals in The Balearic Islands health care system.DESIGNRetrospective observational studySETTINGSon Llatzer University Hospital in Palma de Mallorca (Spain)PARTICIPANTSAmong a cohort of 52 hospitalized patients as of 31 March 2020, 48 with complete demographic information and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive test, were analyzed. Data were collected between March 15th, 2020, and March 31th 2020, inclusive of these dates.MAIN OUTCOMESClinical, vital signs and routine laboratory outcomes at the time of hospitalization, including symptoms reported prior to hospitalization. Demographics and baseline comorbidities were also collected. Mortality was reported at the end of the study.RESULTS48 patients (27 non-ICU and 21 ICU) resident in Mallorca, Spain (mean age, 66 years, [range, 33-88 years]; 67% males) with positive SARS-CoV-2 infection were analyzed. There were no differences in age or sex among groups (p >.05). Initial symptoms included fever (100%), coughing (85%), dyspnea (76%), diarrhea (42%) and asthenia (21%). The majority of patients in this case series were hospitalized because of low SpO2 (SpO2 below 90%) and presentation of bilateral pneumonia (94%) at triage. ICU patients had a higher prevalence of dyspnea compared to non-ICU patients (95% vs 61%, p = .022). Acute respiratory syndrome (ARDS) was presented in 100% of the ICU-patients. All the patients included in the study required oxygen therapy. ICU-patients had lymphopenia as well as hypoalbuminemia. Inflammatory markers such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin were significantly higher in ICU patients compared to non-ICU (p < .001).Lower albumin levels were associated with poor prognosis measured as longer hospital length (r= −0.472, p <.001) and mortality (r= −0.424, p=.003). Interestingly we also found, that MCV was lower among of those patients who died (p=.0002). As of April 28, 2020, 10 patients (8 ICU and 2 non-ICU) had died (21% mortality) and while 100% of the non-ICU patients had been discharged, 33% of ICU patients still remained hospitalized (5 in ICU and 2 had been transferred to ward).CONCLUSIONCritically ill patients with COVID-19 present lymphopenia, hypoalbuminemia as well high levels of inflammation. Lower levels of albumin were associated with poorer outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Albumin might be of importance because of its association with disease severity in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN IN THIS TOPICSpain has been hit particularly hard by the pandemic. By the time that this manuscript was written more than 25.000 deaths related to COVID-19 have been confirmed. There is limited information available describing the clinical and epidemiological features of Spanish patients requiring hospitalization for COVID-19. Also, it is important to know the characteristics of the hospitalized patients who become critically illWHAT THIS STUDY ADDSThis small case series provides the first steps towards a comprehensive clinical characterization of severe and critical COVID-19 adult patients in Spain. The overall mortality in our patients was 21%. To our knowledge this is the first report with reporting these features in Spain. At triage the majority of patients had lower SpO2 (<90%) and bilateral pneumonia. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (70%), dyslipidemia (62%) and cardiovascular disease (30%). Critically ill patients present hypoalbuminemia and lymphopenia, as well as higher levels of inflammation. Albumin might be of importance because of its association with disease severity and mortality in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.


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