Empiric therapy of infected patients in critical care units

Optimal empiric therapy for the infected patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) is based on many considerations, including acquisition of illness, severity, and host factors, such as organ dysfunction. In addition, the type of ICU may also play a role in helping decide appropriate empiric therapy. Complete clinical examination and the results of initial Gram's stain provide the most important therapeutic guidelines. Descriptions of the types of infections seen in various ICUs, including medical/surgical, pediatric, coronary care, and neonatal, are presented. Recommendations based on clinical experiences regarding effective therapeutic agents and combinations are provided.