Risk factors associated with outcomes of critically ill patients: Complications in an intensive care unit

The intensive care unit (ICU) is a setting where critically ill and high-risk patients undergo intensive therapy under continuous monitoring. Throughout their stay, patients undergo multiple tests and a range of medical and surgical procedures, with each case presenting various risk factors and complications. The study sought to evaluate risk factors in ICUs and identify those that present the greatest risk.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among ICU patients with risk factors who developed complications during their stay. Forty-seven patients of diverse ages and genders were admitted to the ICU. The analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS 26.

Analysis of the patient data regarding hospital stay and discharge conditions indicated no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). In relation to ventilation techniques, a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) was observed when comparing it with hospital stay duration; patients who remained in the ICU for more than 20 days encountered various ventilation techniques (18 patients). A statistically significant association was observed on Day 5 for the Cured group (P = 0.034). Fluid balance on Day 2 showed a highly statistically significant relationship with the Cancer system (P < 0.001). The odds ratio (OR) was 1.081 (95% CI: 1.076-1.086). A negative fluid balance correlated with decreased mortality rates, shorter hospitalization durations, and a reduced incidence of sepsis.

A prolonged hospital stay correlates with elevated mortality rates, increased infection risk, and a higher incidence of complications. The past medical history and fluid balance of each patient are essential factors in identifying the most appropriate therapeutic strategy.