Iatrogenic Toxicities in the Intensive Care Unit

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Clinical Pharmacology
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Drug-induced iatrogenic toxicities are prevalent in critically ill patients.
• These toxicities contribute significantly to increased morbidity and mortality.
• Diagnosis is challenging due to critical illness, comorbidities, and polypharmacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common iatrogenic toxicities from medications used in critically ill patients.
• To discuss the mechanisms, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of these toxicities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of iatrogenic toxicities in critical care.
• Focus on commonly used medications in intensive care units.
• Discussion of pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical manifestations.

Main Results:

• Identified several key drug-induced iatrogenic toxicities relevant to critical care.
• Detailed the clinical features and diagnostic approaches for each toxicity.
• Outlined management strategies for recognized iatrogenic drug effects.

Conclusions:

• Early identification and prompt management of drug-induced toxicities are crucial for improving outcomes in critically ill patients.
• Understanding drug mechanisms and clinical presentations aids in diagnosis.
• Comprehensive medication review is essential for preventing and managing iatrogenic harm.