Unplanned extubation. Predictors of successful termination of mechanical ventilatory support

Unplanned Extubations in Intensive Care Unit: evidences for risk factors. A literature review

Background and aim: Unplanned extubations (UE) are getting more and more relevant in Critical Care, becoming a quality and care safeness outcome. This happens because after an UE the patient can face some complications concerning the airway management, respiratory and hemodynamic problems, lengthen in the hospital stay and in the mechanical ventilation time. The aim of this review is identify and classify the factors that could increase UE risk. Methodology: A systematic review of scientific articles was performed consulting the databases PubMed, Cinahl, Medline, EBSCOhost and Google Scholar. Articles from 2006 to 2011 were included. Pediatric Care settings were excluded. Results: 21 articles were selected. From the results emerged that risk factors associated to the patient are widely controversial. Yet restlessness, a low level of sedation and a high level of consciousness seem to be highly related to UE. Organizational risk factors, as workload, nurse:patient ratio, and the use of interdisciplinary protocols seem to play an important role in UE. Conclusion: According the current literature, the research on UE still has to handle a wide uncertainty. There is the need for more studies developing conclusive evidences on the role of different risk factors. Anyway, literature highlights the importance of the nurse and of the healthcare system organization in reducing UE incidence.

Prognostic factors and outcomes of unplanned extubation

This study investigated the prognostic factors and outcomes of unplanned extubation (UE) in patients in a medical center’s 6 intensive care units (ICUs) and calculated their mortality risk. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all adult patients in Chi Mei Medical Center who underwent UE between 2009 and 2015. During the study period, there were 305 episodes of UE in 295 ICU patients (men: 199 [67.5%]; mean age: 65.7 years; age range: 18–94 years). The mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score was 16.4, mean therapeutic intervention scoring system (TISS) score was 26.5, and mean Glasgow coma scale score was 10.4. One hundred thirty-six patients (46.1%) were re-intubated within 48 h. Forty-five died (mortality rate: 15.3%). Multivariate analyses showed 5 risk factors—respiratory rate, APACHE II score, uremia, liver cirrhosis, and weaning status—were independently associated with mortality. In conclusion, five risk factors including a high respiratory rate before UE, high APACHE II score, uremia, liver cirrhosis, and not in the process of being weaned—were associated with high mortality in patients who underwent UE.

Clinical Practice Guidelines for Sustained Neuromuscular Blockade in the Adult Critically Ill Patient

OBJECTIVE

To update the 2002 version of "Clinical practice guidelines for sustained neuromuscular blockade in the adult critically ill patient."

DESIGN

A Task Force comprising 17 members of the Society of Critical Medicine with particular expertise in the use of neuromuscular-blocking agents; a Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation expert; and a medical writer met via teleconference and three face-to-face meetings and communicated via e-mail to examine the evidence and develop these practice guidelines. Annually, all members completed conflict of interest statements; no conflicts were identified. This activity was funded by the Society for Critical Care Medicine, and no industry support was provided.

METHODS

Using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation expert on the Task Force created profiles for the evidence related to six of the 21 questions and assigned quality-of-evidence scores to these and the additional 15 questions for which insufficient evidence was available to create a profile. Task Force members reviewed this material and all available evidence and provided recommendations, suggestions, or good practice statements for these 21 questions.

RESULTS

The Task Force developed a single strong recommendation: we recommend scheduled eye care that includes lubricating drops or gel and eyelid closure for patients receiving continuous infusions of neuromuscular-blocking agents. The Task Force developed 10 weak recommendations. 1) We suggest that a neuromuscular-blocking agent be administered by continuous intravenous infusion early in the course of acute respiratory distress syndrome for patients with a PaO2/FIO2 less than 150. 2) We suggest against the routine administration of an neuromuscular-blocking agents to mechanically ventilated patients with status asthmaticus. 3) We suggest a trial of a neuromuscular-blocking agents in life-threatening situations associated with profound hypoxemia, respiratory acidosis, or hemodynamic compromise. 4) We suggest that neuromuscular-blocking agents may be used to manage overt shivering in therapeutic hypothermia. 5) We suggest that peripheral nerve stimulation with train-of-four monitoring may be a useful tool for monitoring the depth of neuromuscular blockade but only if it is incorporated into a more inclusive assessment of the patient that includes clinical assessment. 6) We suggest against the use of peripheral nerve stimulation with train of four alone for monitoring the depth of neuromuscular blockade in patients receiving continuous infusion of neuromuscular-blocking agents. 7) We suggest that patients receiving a continuous infusion of neuromuscular-blocking agent receive a structured physiotherapy regimen. 8) We suggest that clinicians target a blood glucose level of less than 180 mg/dL in patients receiving neuromuscular-blocking agents. 9) We suggest that clinicians not use actual body weight and instead use a consistent weight (ideal body weight or adjusted body weight) when calculating neuromuscular-blocking agents doses for obese patients. 10) We suggest that neuromuscular-blocking agents be discontinued at the end of life or when life support is withdrawn. In situations in which evidence was lacking or insufficient and the study results were equivocal or optimal clinical practice varies, the Task Force made no recommendations for nine of the topics. 1) We make no recommendation as to whether neuromuscular blockade is beneficial or harmful when used in patients with acute brain injury and raised intracranial pressure. 2) We make no recommendation on the routine use of neuromuscular-blocking agents for patients undergoing therapeutic hypothermia following cardiac arrest. 3) We make no recommendation on the use of peripheral nerve stimulation to monitor degree of block in patients undergoing therapeutic hypothermia. 4) We make no recommendation on the use of neuromuscular blockade to improve the accuracy of intravascular-volume assessment in mechanically ventilated patients. 5) We make no recommendation concerning the use of electroencephalogram-derived parameters as a measure of sedation during continuous administration of neuromuscular-blocking agents. 6) We make no recommendation regarding nutritional requirements specific to patients receiving infusions of neuromuscular-blocking agents. 7) We make no recommendation concerning the use of one measure of consistent weight over another when calculating neuromuscular-blocking agent doses in obese patients. 8) We make no recommendation on the use of neuromuscular-blocking agents in pregnant patients. 9) We make no recommendation on which muscle group should be monitored in patients with myasthenia gravis receiving neuromuscular-blocking agents. Finally, in situations in which evidence was lacking or insufficient but expert consensus was unanimous, the Task Force developed six good practice statements. 1) If peripheral nerve stimulation is used, optimal clinical practice suggests that it should be done in conjunction with assessment of other clinical findings (e.g., triggering of the ventilator and degree of shivering) to assess the degree of neuromuscular blockade in patients undergoing therapeutic hypothermia. 2) Optimal clinical practice suggests that a protocol should include guidance on neuromuscular-blocking agent administration in patients undergoing therapeutic hypothermia. 3) Optimal clinical practice suggests that analgesic and sedative drugs should be used prior to and during neuromuscular blockade, with the goal of achieving deep sedation. 4) Optimal clinical practice suggests that clinicians at the bedside implement measure to attenuate the risk of unintended extubation in patients receiving neuromuscular-blocking agents. 5) Optimal clinical practice suggests that a reduced dose of an neuromuscular-blocking agent be used for patients with myasthenia gravis and that the dose should be based on peripheral nerve stimulation with train-of-four monitoring. 6) Optimal clinical practice suggests that neuromuscular-blocking agents be discontinued prior to the clinical determination of brain death.

Airway accidents in critical care unit: A 3-year retrospective study in a Public Teaching Hospital of Eastern India

Background:

Although tracheal tubes are essential devices to control and protect airway in a critical care unit (CCU), they are not free from complications.

Aims:

To document the incidence and nature of airway accidents in the CCU of a government teaching hospital in Eastern India.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of all airway accidents in a 5-bedded (medical and surgical) CCU. The number, types, timing, and severity of airway accidents were analyzed.

Results:

The total accident rate was 19 in 233 intubated and/or tracheostomized patients over 1657 tube days (TDs) during 3 years. Fourteen occurred in 232 endotracheally intubated patients over 1075 endotracheal tube (ETT) days, and five occurred in 44 tracheostomized patients over 580 tracheostomy TDs. Fifteen accidents were due to blocked tubes. Rest four were unplanned extubations (UEs), all being accidental extubations. All blockages occurred during night shifts and all UEs during day shifts. Five accidents were mild, the rest moderate. No major accident led to cardiorespiratory arrest or death. All blockages occurred after 7^th day of intubation. The outcome of accidents were more favorable in tracheostomy group compared to ETT group (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of airway accidents was 8.2 accidents per 100 patients. Blockages were the most common accidents followed by UEs. Ten out of the 15 blockages and all 4 UEs were in endotracheally intubated patients. Tracheostomized patients had 5 blockages and no UEs.

Revisiting Unplanned Endotracheal Extubation and Disease Severity in Intensive Care Units

Most reports regarding unplanned extubation (UE) are case-control studies with matching age and disease severity. To avoid diminishing differences in matched factors, this study with only matching duration of mechanical ventilation aimed to re-examine the risk factors and the factors governing outcomes of UE in intensive care units (ICUs). This case-control study was conducted on 1,775 subjects intubated for mechanical ventilation. Thirty-seven (2.1%) subjects with UE were identified, and 156 non-UE subjects were randomly selected as the control group. Demographic data, acute Physiological and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, and outcomes of UE were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the risk factors of UE. Milder disease, younger age, and higher Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores with more frequently being physically restrained (all p<0.05) were related to UE. Logistic regression revealed that APACHE II score (odds ratio (OR) 0.91, p<0.01), respiratory infection (OR 0.24, p<0.01), physical restraint (OR 5.36, p<0.001), and certain specific diseases (OR 3.79–5.62, p<0.05) were related to UE. The UE patients had a lower ICU mortality rate (p<0.01) and a trend of lower in-hospital mortality rate (p = 0.08). Cox regression analysis revealed that in-hospital mortality was associated with APACHE II score, age, shock, and oxygen used, all of which were co-linear, but not UE. The results showed that milder disease with higher GCS scores thereby requiring a higher use of physical restraints were related to UE. Disease severity but not UE was associated with in-hospital mortality.

Unplanned Extubation in Patients with Mechanical Ventilation: Experience in the Medical Intensive Care Unit of a Single Tertiary Hospital

Background

Potentially harmful unplanned extubation (UE) may occur in patients on mechanical ventilation (MV) in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics of UE and its impact on clinical outcomes in patients with MV in a medical ICU (MICU).

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated MICU data prospectively collected between December 2011 and May 2014.

Results

A total of 468 patients were admitted to the MICU, of whom 450 were on MV. Of the patients on MV, 30 (6.7%) experienced UE; 13 (43.3%) required reintubation after UE, whereas 17 (56.7%) did not require reintubation. Patients who required reintubation had a significantly longer MV duration and ICU stay than did those not requiring reintubation (19.4±15.1 days vs. 5.9±5.9 days days and 18.1±14.2 days vs. 7.1±6.5 days, respectively; p<0.05). In addition, mortality rate was significantly higher among patients requiring reintubation than among those not requiring reintubation (54.5% vs. 5.9%; p=0.007). These two groups of patients exhibited no significant differences, within 2 hours after UE, in the fraction of inspired oxygen, blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and pH.

Conclusion

Although reintubation may not always be required in patients with UE, it is associated with a poor outcome after UE.

Clinical outcomes after unplanned extubation in a surgical intensive care population

BACKGROUND

Clinical outcome after unplanned extubation (UE) in patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) has not been fully investigated. In this study we assessed in-hospital mortality of patients with UE and determined whether UE is a predictor of in-hospital mortality. Finally, we sought to identify predictors of reintubation after UE in mechanically ventilated patients in the SICU.

METHODS

Medical charts of patients (n = 4,407) admitted to the SICU between October 2007 and December 2011 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Eighty-five episodes of UE occurred in 81 patients. Patients with UE required emergency surgery more frequently and had higher ICU and hospital mortality rates, reintubation rate, and APACHE II scores and longer mechanical ventilation (MV) and ICU stay than patients without UE (P < 0.05 for all associations). Multivariate analysis revealed that reintubation (odds ratio [95 % confidence interval]: 4.14 [2.58-6.67]; P < 0.001), APACHE II scores (1.14 [1.12-1.17]; P < 0.001), emergency surgery (1.73 [1.18-2.53]; P = 0.005), and chronic neurologic disease (2.11 [1.30-3.41]; P = 0.002) were associated with hospital mortality. Reintubation was necessary in 17 patients. On multivariate analysis, a score on the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS, 0.48 [0.31-0.76]; P = 0.001), PaO2/FiO2 ratio (0.99 [0.99-1.00]; P = 0.048), and MV duration before UE (1.46 [1.08-1.98]; P = 0.014) were independently associated with reintubation after UE.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicated that although patients with UE had high in-hospital mortality, UE was not directly associated with in-hospital mortality. Reintubation, chronic neurologic disease, emergency operation, and higher APACHE II score were related to increased in-hospital mortality. A low RASS score, a low PaO2/FiO2 ratio, and long MV duration before UE were related to reintubation after UE.

Unplanned extubation in critically ill adults: clinical review

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To investigate and synthesize the evidence on the incidence and consequences of unplanned extubation (UE) in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, and on risk factors for UE.

BACKGROUND

ICU patients generally spend considerable time being intubated via the endotracheal route. Non-planned endotracheal tube removal, either deliberate or accidental, may pose significant safety risks for them. As UE is among the most studied critical incidents in the ICU, evaluation and summary of existing findings could provide important implications for clinical practice. SEARCH STRATEGIES, INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA: Observational studies published between 1990 and 2012 in English-language journals indexed by Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies on UE of critically ill adults. Thirty-three articles were considered eligible for inclusion.

CONCLUSIONS

UE incidence varies considerably among reports, with self-extubation representing the majority of cases. Agitation, especially when combined with inadequate sedation, and decreased patient surveillance are the major risk factors for UE. Inexperienced personnel and improper tube fixation may also be important, while physical restraint use remains controversial. UE can be followed by serious complications, mainly aspiration, laryngeal oedema and increased risk for pneumonia. Need for re-intubation is a major determinant of patient outcomes. Implementation of educational or quality improvement programs is expected to advance personnel's knowledge about risk factors for UE, promote skills on safe, standardized procedures for patient care and increase compliance with them.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Identifying risk factors for UE and minimizing UE incidence through appropriate preventive strategies are prerequisites for improving nursing care quality and patient safety in the ICU.

Self/unplanned extubation: safety, surveillance, and monitoring of the mechanically ventilated patient

The purpose of this article is to provide an appreciation for a significant risk to quality of care affecting patients receiving mechanical ventilation: unplanned extubation. A summary of the current literature provides evidence-based recommendations for how to minimize this potentially dangerous complication. In addition, recommendations for proceeding after unplanned extubation are made.

Unplanned endotracheal extubations in the intensive care unit: systematic review, critical appraisal, and evidence-based recommendations

BACKGROUND

In this study, we updated the state of knowledge on unplanned tracheal extubations in the intensive care unit. We focused on the following topics: incidence, risk factors, reintubation after unplanned extubation, outcomes, and prevention. Based on this review, recommendations were made for preventing unplanned extubations.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched for relevant publications from January 1, 1950 through June 30, 2011 on the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SciELO, LILACS, and Cochrane systems. Fifty articles were eligible for data abstraction. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Grades of recommendation were assessed according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine.

RESULTS

Unplanned extubations occur at a rate of 0.1 to 3.6 events per 100 intubation days. Risk factors associated with unplanned extubations included male gender (odds ratio [OR] 4.8), APACHE score ≥17 (OR 9.0), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, restlessness/agitation (OR 3.3-30.6), lower sedation level (OR 2.0-5.4), higher consciousness level (OR 1.4-2.0), and use of physical restraints (OR 3.1). Reintubation rates ranged from 1.8% to 88% of unplanned extubations. Thirteen studies assessed preventive measures for avoiding unplanned extubations. These studies focused on data collection tools, standardization of procedures, staff education, staff surveillance, and identification and management of high-risk patients. These studies reported reductions in unplanned extubation rate from 22% to 53%. The best methods of securing the endotracheal tube and use of physical restraints remain controversial issues.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite numerous publications on unplanned extubation, few studies assess preventive strategies for adverse events, and few clinical trials have assessed unplanned extubations. Recommendations are proposed based on the currently available literature.

The role of standardized protocols in unplanned extubations in a medical intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Many patients admitted to medical intensive care units require mechanical ventilation to assist with respiratory management. Unplanned extubations of these patients are associated with poor outcomes for patients and organizations. No previous research has investigated the role of standardized protocols in unplanned extubations when examined in conjunction with traditional risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors associated with unplanned extubation among patients receiving mechanical ventilation and determine degree of compliance with pain, sedation, and weaning protocols.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study design was used. Data on all patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit who required mechanical ventilation were gathered daily. Additional data were gathered on those patients who experienced unplanned extubation. Descriptive, correlational, and regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Weaning protocols were a significant predictor of unplanned extubation: patients who had weaning protocols ordered and followed were least likely to experience unplanned extubation. Only 10% of the 190 patients in the study required reintubation, resulting in a significantly shorter ventilation time and unit length of stay among the unplanned extubation group.

CONCLUSIONS

Weaning protocols were associated with decreased incidence of unplanned extubation. Use of standardized protocols was feasible, as compliance among health care providers was high when protocols were medically prescribed. The reintubation rate in this study was low and associated with a significantly shorter ventilatory period and unit length of stay in the unplanned extubation group.

Unplanned extubation in the ICU: a marker of quality assurance of mechanical ventilation

One of the most frequent complications associated with endotracheal intubation itself in intensive care units is unplanned extubation, which represents a potentially serious complication given that many patients may need reintubation while in poor condition. This scenario may account for an increase in morbidity and even in mortality. To be able to compare the rates of unplanned extubation in clinical practice, unplanned extubation should be expressed as incidence density of days at risk. Also, this complication (unplanned extubation and reintubation rates) may be used as a marker of quality of weaning care in intensive care units.

Risk factors and outcomes after unplanned extubations on the ICU: a case-control study

Introduction

Unplanned extubation (UE) is a frequent event during mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients and might be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. However, detailed knowledge of risk factors and outcomes after UE is lacking.

Methods

A case-control study was performed with a case to control ratio of 1:4. Incidence density sampling was applied. Seventy-four cases and 296 control patients were included.

Results

Seventy-four UEs occurred in 69 patients, comprising 2% of all mechanically ventilated patients. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that the first and second categories of the Ramsay Sedation Scale score were associated with a high risk for an UE (odds ratios (ORs) 30 and 25, respectively). Male sex, subunit of the intensive care unit (ICU), length of stay in the ICU and midazolam use at time of UE were also risk factors for an UE. Patients with an UE had lower hospital mortality than mechanically ventilated patients without UE, 10% versus 30%, respectively. Forty-seven percent (n = 35) of the patients with an UE had to be reintubated.

Conclusions

The present study shows that the first and second categories of the Ramsay Sedation Scale were associated with a high risk for an UE. Also, male sex and use of midazolam at time of UE were identified as risk factors for an UE. However, compared with mechanically ventilated controls, no increased mortality was shown for UE patients. In UE patients without the need for subsequent reintubation, mortality was very low.

Unplanned extubation in pediatric critically ill patients: a systematic review and best practice recommendations

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to update the state of knowledge of unplanned extubations in the pediatric population. The main topics addressed in the current literature on unplanned extubations were: 1) incidence; 2) risk factors; 3) risk factors for reintubation after unplanned extubations; and 4) strategies to prevent unplanned extubations. Based on this review we summarize and propose best practices in preventing unplanned extubations.

DATA SOURCE

MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scielo, Lilacs, and Cochrane databases were searched for bibliography for the period spanning from January 1966 to March 2009. We used the following key words: unplanned extubation, accidental extubation, self extubation, unintentional extubation, unexpected extubation, inadvertent extubation, spontaneous extubation, and treatment interference.

STUDY SELECTION

Eleven pediatric articles were eligible for data abstraction. Study quality was assessed using four levels of aggregate evidence adapted from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Unplanned extubations occurs at a rate of 0.11 to 2.27 events per 100 intubation days. Risk factors associated with unplanned extubations were age (younger patients), inadequate tube fixation, agitation, copious secretions, performance of patient procedures, and nursing workload. Reintubation rates ranged from 14% to 65% of unplanned extubations. Three cohort studies evaluated the effectiveness of strategies in reducing unplanned extubations. One study reported the institution of a standardized algorithm of goal-directed sedation, whereas two studies evaluated the implementation of a continuous quality-improvement program. These studies reported significant reductions in unplanned extubations rate after program implementation. Methods of securing the endotracheal tube varied across studies and the use of physical restraints yielded conflicting findings.

CONCLUSIONS

There are few studies assessing unplanned extubations in pediatric intensive care units. The available quality studies have shown that improvement of quality components is effective in reducing unplanned extubations. Although further rigorous studies are needed to establish strong recommendations on unplanned extubations prevention, we present a summary of recommendations based on review of the current literature.

Unplanned extubation in orally intubated medical patients in the intensive care unit: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Unplanned endotracheal extubation (UE) is recognized as the most common airway adverse event in the intensive care unit (ICU).

OBJECTIVES

We examined the incidence, circumstances, and outcome of UE in orally intubated medical patients in the ICU.

METHODS

We performed a 12-month prospective cohort study in a tertiary-care medical ICU.

RESULTS

A total of 344 consecutive adults who were orally intubated and mechanically ventilated for 3710 days were included. The overall incidence density of UE was .92 of 100 days of ventilation. Eight episodes (24%) occurred in patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) and not in the weaning process versus 26 episodes (76%) in patients scheduled for weaning. UE was reported as intentional in 71% of cases and as accidental in 29% of cases. In 59% of UE cases, patients were without caregivers at the bedside when the episode took place, and 46% of cases occurred during the night shift. Reintubation was required in 41% of patients and was strongly associated with the accidental nature of the episode (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 4.3 [1.9-9.6]). Compared with patients without UE, patients with UE had a lower mortality rate (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: .21 [.6-.8]) but longer days on MV (11.5 vs 5, P = .09) and ICU stay (13.5 vs 6, P = .08).

CONCLUSIONS

This study does not confirm the highest rates of UE previously reported in orally intubated medical patients in the ICU or the association with mortality in this scenario. However, UE increased the need for MV and ICU care. We found a moderate to high prevalence of potentially modifiable risk factors for UE, suggesting unsatisfactory ICU practices.

The Drive to Survive

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To assess the consequences of unplanned extubation (UE) in the ICU.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

Fourteen-bed, medical-surgical ICU of a university-affiliated community teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

One hundred patients who underwent UE compared to 200 control patients who underwent mechanical ventilation (MV) without UE between January 1, 1999, and June 30, 2004.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

Patients with UE had longer ICU and hospital length of stay (LOS) and longer duration of MV than did control subjects. Hospital mortality was 20% among UE and 35% among control patients (p = 0.011). Of the 100 patients with UE, reintubation within 48 h (UE R+) was required in 44 patients and no reintubation within 48 h (UE R-) was required in 56 patients. ICU and hospital LOS; duration of MV; rate of ICU-acquired infections; ICU pharmacy, laboratory and diagnostic imaging charges; and mortality were all much higher among UE R+ patients than among UE R- patients. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age was the only predictor of the need for reintubation after UE and that age and the need for reintubation were the only predictors of mortality after UE.

CONCLUSIONS

UE was associated with increased hospital and ICU LOS but decreased mortality in this heterogeneous population of critically ill adult patients. These findings were entirely explained by the divergent outcomes of the UE R+ and UE R- groups. Patients with UE who did not require reintubation had remarkably good outcomes. It remains incumbent on ICU teams to institute protocols for regular identification of patients ready to be liberated from MV.

Reporting unplanned extubation

Between 1995 and 2002 seven clinical audits were undertaken in consecutive periods over twelve months to determine the frequency and risk factors associated with reported unplanned extubation (UE) within a 22-bed general and surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Nursing and medical staff provided information on the patient's age, diagnosis, mental status, precipitating causes and investigations/treatment ordered. Following the first audit, modifications were made to include anonymous reporting. Additional information was also obtained on the patient's position, sedation regimen, method of endotracheal tube (ETT) placement and the use of physical restraints. A clinical indicator was established to monitor the UE incidence based as a rate of UE per 100 patients. Audit results were between 1.06% and 4.86% with an aggregate rate from 1995 to 2002 of 2.6%. This rate compares favourably with the range of 2.8-22.5% reported in the literature. Over the survey periods, 28-60% of patients were assessed as being confused or agitated, 47-67% restrained and 53-70% sedated. The UE reported rate initially increased when anonymous reporting was introduced from 1.06% to 4.86%. Unplanned extubation incidence subsequently decreased in Surgical ICU following the introduction of clinical pathways, early weaning and nurse led extubation. Monitoring UE in ICU provides important information on the quality of care. We would recommend a system of anonymous reporting to more freely reflect incidence.

Accidental catheter removal in critically ill patients: a prospective and observational study

Introduction

The importance of accidental catheter removal (ACR) lies in the complications caused by the removal itself and by catheter reinsertion. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have analyzed accidental removal of various types of catheters in the intensive care unit (ICU). The objective of the present study was to analyze the incidence of ACR for all types of catheters in the ICU.

Methods

This was a prospective and observational study, conducted in a 24-bed medical/surgical ICU in a university hospital. We included all consecutive patients admitted to the ICU over 18 months (1 May 2000 to 31 October 2001). The incidences of ACR for all types of catheters (both per 100 catheters and per 100 catheter-days) were determined.

Results

A total of 988 patients were included. There were no significant differences in ACR incidence between the four central venous access sites (peripheral, jugular, subclavian and femoral) or between the four arterial access sites (radial, femoral, pedal and humeral). However, the incidence of ACR was higher for arterial than for central venous catheters (1.12/100 catheter-days versus 2.02/100 catheter-days; P < 0.001). The incidences of ACR/100 nonvascular catheter-days were as follows: endotracheal tube 0.79; nasogastric tube 4.48; urinary catheter 0.32; thoracic drain 0.56; abdominal drain 0.67; and intraventricular brain drain 0.66.

Conclusion

We found ACR incidences for central venous catheter, arterial catheter, endotracheal tube, nasogastric tube and urinary catheter that are similar to those reported in previous studies. We could not find studies that analyzed the ACR for thoracic, abdominal, intraventricular brain and cardiac surgical drains, but we believe that our rates are acceptable. To minimize ACR, it is necessary to monitor its incidence carefully and to implement preventive measures. In our view, according to establish quality standards, findings should be reported as ACR incidence per 100 catheters and per 100 catheter-days, for all types of catheters.

Implications of nursing care in the occurrence and consequences of unplanned extubation in adult intensive care units

This 18-month study used a structured questionnaire to explore the roles of nursing care on the occurrence and consequences of unplanned endotracheal extubation (UEE) in intensive care units in Taiwan. Experiencing UEE were 225/1176 (22.5%) intubated patients: 91.7% were self-extubations and 8.3% were accidental. Self-extubations occurred most frequently during night shifts and in the care of nurses with less working experience. Accidental extubations occurred most frequently in patients undergoing routine nursing procedures, usually required immediate re-intubation and were associated with more complications. An appropriate nurse-to-patient ratio, better working procedures and continual nursing education programs might help reduce occurrence and complications of UEE.

Physical restraint use in a Korean ICU

This descriptive study investigated the patterns of use of physical restraints in a Korean Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with the aim of identifying the factors that would best discriminate the times of application and removal of restraints in the same patients. The subjects of the study were 23 physically restrained patients out of 51 patients who were admitted to a medical ICU in a university hospital admitted during a 6-week period, and the 29 nurses who applied or removed the restraints. Ninety-four incidents of restraint application and removal on the 23 patients were analysed. Data were collected using a self-reporting questionnaire of attitudes towards restraint application for nurses, restraint document sheets, ICU flowsheets and patient chart reviews. Restraint-related patient data were collected on a restraint document sheet by the nurse in charge at each instance of application and removal of restraint. The most common type of restraint was the bilateral wrist restraint. The mean number of restraint applications per patient was 3.62 +/- 3.56 (mean +/- SD), and the mean restrained period per incident was 22.64 +/- 58 hours. There were no significant differences in the frequency of restraint use during the day, evening and night shifts. The most significant discriminators for restraint application and removal were the restless-behaviour score and the presence of a nasogastric tube - the classification accuracy by these two factors was 70.2%. More than 90% of the decisions to apply restraints were made by nurses. Nurses reported that preventing the patient from removing medical devices (48.6%) was the primary reason for application, and improvement of cognitive status (29.3%) was the primary reason for removal of restraint. In conclusion, as the most discriminating factor of application or removal of restraints was the patient's restless behaviour, providing nurses with tools for the accurate evaluation of patient restlessness will shorten restraint application periods in ICUs.

The relationship of sedation to deliberate self-extubation

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the relationship between sedative therapy and self-extubation in a large medical-surgical intensive care unit (ICU).

DESIGN

Retrospective, case-controlled study.

SETTING

Large teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

All adult patients who underwent unplanned self-extubation during a 12-month period (n = 50). Each patient was matched to two control patients who did not self-extubate based on age, gender, dates in hospital and diagnosis.

INTERVENTIONS

none.

MEASUREMENTS

Data collected included time to self extubation, dosages and types of benzodiazepines, opioid analgesics, antipsychotics, and hypnotics. Data on the degree of agitation as assessed by nursing staff also were obtained.

MAIN RESULTS

When compared to controls, patients in the self-extubation group were more likely to have received benzodiazepines (59% vs. 35%; p < 0.05), but equally likely to have received opioids and/or paralytic drugs. Patients who self-extubated were twice as likely as controls to be agitated (54% vs. 22%; p < 0.05). Use of benzodiazepines was more common in agitated patients than in nonagitated patients (62% vs. 35%; p < 0.02). Among nonagitated patients who self-extubated, increased use of benzodiazepines (57% vs. 29%; p < 0.05) was noted when compared to nonagitated controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In intubated ICU patients, benzodiazepines may not consistently treat agitation effectively or prevent self-extubation. Such an effect may be due to paradoxical excitation, disorientation during long-term administration, or differences in drug administration between ICU and operating room (OR) environments.

The impact of adverse patient occurrences on hospital costs in the pediatric intensive care unit

OBJECTIVES

To study the influence of adverse patient occurrences defined as airway complication (AC), vascular complication (VC), and infectious complication (IC) on intensive care unit (ICU) costs and length of stay (LOS).

DESIGN

Retrospective, cohort study

SETTING

An urban, tertiary care children's hospital in Philadelphia, PA.

PATIENTS

All children admitted to a multidisciplinary pediatric ICU during the fiscal year 1994.

INTERVENTIONS

None

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Demographic data, diagnoses, Pediatric Risk of Mortality scores, LOS, and deaths were recorded. Hospital charges were converted into costs by using cost-to-charge ratios. There were 23 AC, 35 VC, and 40 IC events. Multiple regression in models adjusting for age, Pediatric Risk of Mortality score, mortality, chronic disease, and diagnosis by using AC, VC, and IC indicator variables was performed on the dependent variables of LOS and total costs. IC was associated with an increase in total costs of $50,361.89 (p < .001), an increased LOS of 15.6 days (p < .001), and no significant increase in daily costs. There were no significant increases in costs or LOS seen with the AC and VC variables. In a matched analysis, the total costs attributable to IC averaged $32,040 per patient.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of complications in the pediatric ICU is associated with meaningful increases in LOS and hospital costs. ICs are more important predictors of costs than ACs or VCs. Continuing efforts should be made to minimize adverse occurrences to improve patient care and reduce costs.

Validation of predictors of extubation success and failure in mechanically ventilated infants and children

OBJECTIVE

To validate predictors of extubation success and failure in mechanically ventilated infants and children by using bedside measures of respiratory function.

DESIGN

Prospective, descriptive study.

SETTING

A university-affiliated children's hospital with a 51-bed critical care area.

PATIENTS

All infants and children who were mechanically ventilated for > or =24 hrs except neonates < or =37 wks gestation and patients with neuromuscular disease.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND METHODS

Extubation failure was defined as reintubation within 48 hrs of extubation in the absence of upper airway obstruction. Failure rates were calculated for different ranges (selected a priori of preextubation measures of breathing effort, ventilator support, respiratory mechanics, central inspiratory drive, and integrated indices useful in adults. Effort of spontaneous breathing was assessed by the respiratory rate standardized to age, the presence of retractions and paradoxic breathing, inspiratory pressure, maximal negative inspiratory pressure, ratio of inspiratory pressure to maximal negative inspiratory pressure, and tidal volume indexed to body weight of a spontaneous breath. Ventilator support was measured by F(IO2), mean airway pressure, oxygenation index, and the fraction of total minute ventilation provided by the ventilator. Respiratory mechanics was assessed by peak ventilatory inspiratory pressure and dynamic compliance. Central inspiratory drive was assessed by mean inspiratory flow. Frequency to tidal volume ratio and the CROP (compliance, rate, oxygenation, and pressure) indexed to body weight, the integrated indices useful in predicting extubation failure in adults, were also calculated. A regression test for a linear trend in proportions was performed with preselected ranges and the corresponding failure rates. The failure rates from this study (validation group) were compared to those published previously (prediction group) by the chi-square test for proportions. The distribution of categorical variables between groups was analyzed by using the chi-square test or the Fisher's exact test, and p < .05 was considered significant.

MAIN RESULTS

The study involved 312 patients. There were no differences in any of the clinical characteristics between the prediction and validation groups. The reasons for reintubation were similar in both groups. Preextubation data were also similar between the two groups. There were no differences between the prediction and the validation groups in failure rates with different ranges. There were no differences in the failure rates for any of the cutoff values for peak ventilatory inspiratory pressure, mean airway pressure, F(IO2), oxygenation index, dynamic compliance, tidal volume indexed to body weight of a spontaneous breath, fraction of total minute ventilation provided by the ventilator, and mean inspiratory flow.

CONCLUSIONS

Bedside measures of respiratory function can predict extubation success and failure in infants and children. Both a low risk and a high risk of failure can be determined by using these measures. Integrated indices useful in adults do not reliably predict extubation success or failure in infants and children. Our study validates our previously published study.

Using a best practice approach to prevent treatment interference in critical care

Treatment interference, also known as therapy disruption, device disruption, or self extubation, is a common and especially difficult clinical problem in critical care. This paper presents creative and practical clinical innovations and relevant research findings as a "best practice approach" to prevent treatment interference in critical care settings. Key principles are presented to guide patient assessment and selection of nursing strategies. Nursing assessment parameters are described and a wide range of nonrestraint strategies are discussed.

Effect of unplanned extubation on outcome of mechanical ventilation

Unplanned extubation is a major complication of translaryngeal intubation, but its impact on mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation (MV), length of intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stay, and need for ongoing hospital care has not been adequately defined. We performed a case-control study in a tertiary-care medical ICU, comparing 75 patients with unplanned extubation and 150 controls matched for Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, presence of comorbid conditions, age, indication for MV, and sex. Forty-two (56%) patients required reintubation after unplanned extubation (74% immediately, 86% within 12 h). Thirty-three (44%) unplanned extubations occurred during weaning trials, and 30% of these patients needed reintubation (failed unplanned extubation). In contrast, 76% of patients with unplanned extubation occurring during ventilatory support required reintubation. Although mortality was similar to that of controls (failed unplanned extubation 40%, versus control 31%, p > 0.2), patients with failed unplanned extubation had a significantly longer duration of MV (19 versus 11 d, p < 0.01), longer stay in the ICU (21 versus 14 d, p < 0.05), and longer hospital stay (30 versus 21 d, p < 0.01), and survivors were more likely to require chronic care (64% versus 24%, p < 0.001). Successfully tolerated unplanned extubation was associated with a reduction in time from beginning of weaning to extubation (0.9 versus 2.0 d, p = 0.06), but with no difference in overall duration of MV, mortality, discharge location, ICU, or hospital stay as compared with these measures for controls. We conclude that unplanned extubation is not associated with increased mortality when compared with that of matched controls, although it does result in prolonged MV, longer ICU and hospital stay, and increased need for chronic care. These effects are due exclusively to patients who fail to tolerate unplanned extubation. Although successfully tolerated unplanned extubation decreased the duration of weaning trials, it had no other measurable beneficial impact on outcome.

Introduction of sedative, analgesic, and neuromuscular blocking agent guidelines in a medical intensive care unit: physician and nurse adherence

OBJECTIVE

To determine physician and nurse adherence with sedative, analgesic, and neuromuscular blocking agent guidelines in the management of mechanically ventilated patients in a medical intensive care unit.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SUBJECTS

One hundred consecutively admitted patients to a medical intensive care unit who required mechanical ventilatory support. A sample of 29 nurses, residents, and attending physicians were interviewed regarding their attitudes and perceptions of the guidelines.

MEASUREMENT

Data were collected from concurrent medical records and included the following: demographic characteristics; clinical variables; physician prescriptions of sedative, analgesic, and/or neuromuscular blocking agents; nurse administration of these medications; documentation of monitoring; and assessment of patient hemodynamic status and behaviors. A semistructured interview was elicited from both nurses and physicians about their rationale for the use or nonuse of the guidelines.

RESULTS

Patients ranged in age from 24 to 87 yrs, mean 60.7 (+15.3) yrs. Admission Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation III scores ranged from 36 to 192, mean 93.8 ( 30.5) and median 88. Length of mechanical ventilatory support ranged from 1 to 112 days, mean 14.8 ( 20.0) days, and median 8 days; medical intensive care unit length of stay ranged from 1 to 46 days, with a mean of 9.8 ( 8.1) days and a median of 8 days. Of the 100 patients, 47% died, 28% returned home, and 25% were discharged to a nursing facility. Eighty-five patients were administered one or more sedative, analgesic, and/or neuromuscular blocking agent, range 1-9 drugs, mean 2.5 (+1.5) drugs. Physicians prescribed 14 different medications; the most commonly administered drug was lorazepam (n = 71), followed by morphine (n = 39). Physicians and nurses had partial or total adherence to the guidelines in 58% of patients. The initial choice of the drug followed the guidelines in 60% of patients; the overall guideline was followed in 23% of patients. The most common rationales for nonadherence to the guidelines stated by both physicians and nurses were patient-specific factors, resident guideline learning curve, and physician medication preferences.

CONCLUSION

Most patients required treatment for agitated behaviors. The majority of treatment regimens partially or totally adhered to the guidelines. Factors such as patient-specific disease states, resident guideline learning curve, and physician preferences of medications may have decreased adherence. Improving adherence to the guidelines is essential to assess their effectiveness in improving clinical outcomes.

Assessing the need for reintubation: a prospective evaluation of unplanned endotracheal extubation

OBJECTIVE

Unplanned endotracheal extubation (UEE) is a common complication in medical intensive care units but very little data about UEE in surgical populations are available. Our hypothesis is that the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) population requires reintubation less frequently compared with the medical intensive care unit population. We prospectively gathered data on patients in a SICU in an attempt to identify the incidence of UEE and to study the need for reintubation after UEE.

METHODS

During an 18-month period, we prospectively identified SICU patients from a quality improvement database who required ventilatory support. All patients who self-extubated were included in the study.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight of 1,178 intubated patients experienced unplanned extubation 61 times during the 18-month period. A total of 22 patients (36%) required reintubation, whereas 39 patients (64%) did not. Thirty-three patients self-extubated while being actively weaned from ventilatory support. Of these, only 5 patients (15%) required reintubation and 28 patients (85%) did not (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

A total of 85% of patients who self-extubate during the weaning process did not require reintubation in our study. Those who have an FiO2 >50%, a lower PaO2/FiO2 ratio, had UEE occur by accident, or were not being weaned when UEE occurred required reintubation more frequently. These data suggest that some of our SICU patients are intubated longer than necessary, which may translate into more ventilator related complications, longer ICU stays and increased cost.

Accidental removal of endotracheal and nasogastric tubes and intravascular catheters

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the rates of accidental removal of endotracheal tubes, nasogastric tubes, central venous catheters, and arterial catheters. To assess the efficacy of corrective measures aimed at reducing the accidental removal of these devices.

DESIGN

Prospective, observational, and interventional study.

SETTING

Eighteen-bed medical-surgical intensive care unit of a 650-bed tertiary care hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients admitted to the intensive care unit who had any of the following devices in place for more than 24 hrs: endotracheal tube, nasogastric tube, central venous catheter, arterial catheter.

MEASUREMENTS AND INTERVENTIONS

Data were collected on the date of placement of tubes and catheters, position of vascular catheters, date of removal, and reason for removal. The study involved three consecutive 6-month periods. At the end of the first and the second periods, information about rates of accidental removal was provided to the physicians and nurses. In addition, the personnel were instructed to be more vigilant and specific measures aimed at reducing the accidental removal were introduced.

MAIN RESULTS

In the first period, 289 endotracheal tubes were placed and 13.1% (24.7 per 1000 days) were removed accidentally. In the second and third periods, 17.1% (25.5 per 1000 days) and 11.4% (15.1 per 1000 days) were removed accidentally, respectively. In the first period, 368 nasogastric tubes were placed and 41% (73.9 per 1000 days) were removed accidentally. In both the second and the third period, a significant reduction in the rate of accidental removal was observed (32.4% or 41.2 per 1000 days and 25.8% or 29.8 per 1000 days, respectively). A significant decrease was observed in the rates of accidental removal of central venous catheters from 7.5% (12.4 per 1000 days) in the first period to 3.6% (5.4 per 1000 days) in the second period. The rate of arterial catheters accidentally removed expressed according to the time at risk significantly decreased from 46.5 per 1000 days in the first period to 19.1 per 1000 days in the second period and 25.3 per 1000 days in the third period.

CONCLUSIONS

The information provided by the rates of accidental removal expressed by patient-days is helpful to compare results obtained in populations with different times of follow-up. Education of medical personnel and limiting upper-extremity access to within 20 cm from any catheter or tube resulted in a significant reduction of patient-related removal of tubes and catheters.

Weaning from mechanical ventilation

For most mechanically ventilated patients, weaning can be accomplished quickly and easily. However, there is a smaller group of ventilated patients who fail to wean and remain ventilator-dependent. These patients account for a significant amount of health care costs and pose a great challenge for clinicians. Detailed knowledge of the etiology and pathophysiology of weaning failure is very important for the "treatment" of difficult to wean patients, and is thoroughly presented in this article. Based on this physiological background, strategies and techniques are proposed that are useful for the gradual transition to spontaneous ventilation.

Approximate entropy of respiratory rate and tidal volume during weaning from mechanical ventilation

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of respiratory failure on respiratory rate pattern and tidal volume pattern.

DESIGN

Prospective, clinical study.

SETTING

Cardiovascular intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

Ten patients within 12 hrs of cardiac surgery, and 21 patients who required prolonged (>7 days) mechanical ventilation.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were placed on spontaneous ventilation for weaning trials.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

During spontaneous ventilation, each breath's instantaneous respiratory rate and tidal volume were recorded for later analysis. Approximate entropy (ApEn) was calculated for respiratory rate and tidal volume series of the terminal 1000 breaths on each spontaneous ventilation trial in series of 100, 300, and 1000 breaths. Ten patients (controls) were studied and extubated within 12 hrs of cardiac surgery. The other 21 patients were studied during attempts to wean them from mechanical ventilation. These patients passed (Group V-Pass) 59 and failed (Group V-Fail) 14 weaning trials. Mean tidal volume did not vary between groups, but respiratory rate increased progressively from the control group to Group V-Pass to Group V-Fail (p < .017). Conversely, approximate entropy of respiratory rate (ApEn-RR) did not vary among the three groups at any time series length, but approximate entropy of tidal volume (ApEn-VT) increased from the control group to Group V-P (p< .017) to Group V-F (p< .017) at all time series lengths. ApEn-VT was very specific but only moderately sensitive at identifying respiratory failure.

CONCLUSION

Respiratory failure causes tidal volume patterns to become increasingly irregular, but increasing respiratory rate has no effect on respiratory rate pattern.

The use of continuous i.v. sedation is associated with prolongation of mechanical ventilation

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the use of continuous i.v. sedation is associated with prolongation of the duration of mechanical ventilation.

DESIGN

Prospective observational cohort study.

SETTING

The medical ICU of Barnes-Jewish Hospital, a university-affiliated urban teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

Two hundred forty-two consecutive ICU patients requiring mechanical ventilation.

INTERVENTIONS

Patient surveillance and data collection.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

The primary outcome measure was the duration of mechanical ventilation. Secondary outcome measures included ICU and hospital lengths of stay, hospital mortality, and acquired organ system derangements. A total of 93 (38.4%) mechanically ventilated patients received continuous i.v. sedation while 149 (61.6%) patients received either bolus administration of i.v. sedation (n=64) or no i.v. sedation (n=85) following intubation. The duration of mechanical ventilation was significantly longer for patients receiving continuous i.v. sedation compared with patients not receiving continuous i.v. sedation (185+/-190 h vs 55.6+/-75.6 h; p<0.001). Similarly, the lengths of intensive care (13.5+/-33.7 days vs 4.8+/-4.1 days; p<0.001) and hospitalization (21.0+/-25.1 days vs 12.8+/-14.1 days; p<0.001) were statistically longer among patients receiving continuous i.v. sedation. Multiple linear regression analysis, adjusting for age, gender, severity of illness, mortality, indication for mechanical ventilation, use of chemical paralysis, presence of a tracheostomy, and the number of acquired organ system derangements, found the adjusted duration of mechanical ventilation to be significantly longer for patients receiving continuous i.v. sedation compared with patients who did not receive continuous i.v. sedation (148 h [95% confidence interval: 121, 175 h] vs 78.7 h [95% confidence interval: 68.9, 88.6 h]; p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

We conclude from these preliminary observational data that the use of continuous i.v. sedation may be associated with the prolongation of mechanical ventilation. This study suggests that strategies targeted at reducing the use of continuous i.v. sedation could shorten the duration of mechanical ventilation for some patients. Prospective randomized clinical trials, using well-designed sedation guidelines and protocols, are required to determine whether patient-specific outcomes (eg, duration of mechanical ventilation, patient comfort) can be improved compared with conventional sedation practices.

Unplanned extubation: risk factors of development and predictive criteria for reintubation

OBJECTIVES

To define patients at risk for unplanned extubation; to assess the influence of nursing workload on the incidence of unplanned extubation; and to determine predictive criteria for patients requiring reintubation.

DESIGN

A prospective, case-control study, with 10 and 15 mos of data collection.

SETTING

University medical intensive care department.

PATIENTS

In the first study, which lasted 10 mos, unplanned extubation occurred in 40 (14%) of 281 ventilated and intubated patients; 36 cases were sufficiently documented to be compared with 74 intubated and ventilated controls. In the second study, which lasted 15 mos, the reintubated patients (n=23) of a series of 62 unplanned extubation patients were compared with those who were not reintubated (n=39).

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The following parameters were recorded: gender, age, main reason for admission, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II, route of intubation (oral or nasotracheal), tube diameter, ventilatory mode, FiO2, frequency and tidal volume delivered by the ventilator immediately before unplanned extubation, arterial blood gases performed 24 hrs before unplanned extubation, the presence of any sedation with, in this case, the last Ramsay score, the presence of hand restraints, the presence of weaning of ventilation, the accidental or deliberate nature of unplanned extubation, the Glasgow Coma Score at the time of unplanned extubation, the duration of ventilation before unplanned extubation, total duration of ventilation and stay in the intensive care unit, and the patient's survival or death. The nursing workload was evaluated using a score derived from the Projet de Recherche en Nursing and adapted to intensive care. Unplanned extubation patients were more frequently intubated orally than controls (33.3% vs. 14.9%, respectively; p< .05). In the population of sedated patients, unplanned extubation patients were more frequently agitated than controls (60% vs. 19%, respectively; p < .05). The nursing workload did not differ between days with and days without unplanned extubation. Twenty-three (37%) of the 62 cases of documented unplanned extubation were reintubated. Predictive factors of reintubation are, in decreasing order of importance: Glasgow Coma Score of <11, accidental nature of unplanned extubation, and a PaO2/FiO2 ratio <200 torr (<26.7 kPa).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients at risk for unplanned extubation are characterized by oral intubation and insufficient sedation. In the department studied, and with the specific score used, we did not observe a relationship between the nursing workload and the incidence of unplanned extubation. A Glasgow Coma Score of <11, the accidental nature of unplanned extubation, and a PaO2/FiO2 ratio <200 torr (<26.7 kPa) are factors associated with a risk of reintubation.

Unplanned tracheal extubation outside the operating room: a quality improvement audit of hemodynamic and tracheal airway complications associated with emergency tracheal reintubation

The incidence of hemodynamic and airway complications associated with tracheal reintubation after an unplanned extubation has not been established. Patients whose tracheas were emergently intubated outside the operating room were reviewed over a 27-mo period via a quality improvement vehicle to evaluate hemodynamic and airway complications. Data from a subset of patients (n = 57) who underwent tracheal reintubation after unplanned (self-) extubation were collected for analysis. Of the reintubations, 93% took place within 2 h of self-extubation. Of the patients, 72% had hemodynamic alterations and/or airway-related complications, including hypotension (35%), tachycardia (30%), hypertension (14%), multiple laryngoscopic attempts (22%), difficult laryngoscopy (16%), difficult intubations (14%), hypoxemia (14%), and esophageal intubation (14%). In addition, one surgical airway and one case of "cannot ventilate, cannot intubate" leading to cardiac arrest and death were recorded. These findings suggest that patients requiring reintubation will likely do so soon after self-extubation and that reintubation can be fraught with significant hemodynamic and airway complications. Less than one third of patients undergo a mishap-free reintubation. Strategies to decrease the self-extubation rate in the intensive care unit are needed to improve patient safety and to lessen the potential impact of emergency airway management.

IMPLICATIONS

Self-extubation by patients requiring mechanical ventilation can be life-threatening, and replacing the breathing tube often leads to hemodynamic and airway complications. Using this quality improvement audit, 57 self-extubating patients and the complications associated with replacing the breathing tube, which are numerous and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, were analyzed.

Unplanned extubations in the adult intensive care unit: a prospective multicenter study. Association des Réanimateurs du Centre-Ouest

The predisposing factors and complications of unplanned extubation (UEX) in mechanically ventilated adult patients are not well recognized. We designed a prospective multicenter observational study to identify risk factors and describe the complications of UEX. We followed 426 ventilated patients over a 2-mo period. Clinical characteristics such as diagnosis on admission and reasons for ventilation were used to classify the patients. The presence or absence of potential risk factors was daily noted, including the types of ventilators, tracheal tubes, tube fixations, ventilatory support modes, route for intubation, and the use of intravenous sedation. Circumstances and complications of UEX were prospectively recorded. Forty-six (10.8%) patients experienced at least one episode of UEX. Ten UEX occurred during nursing procedures. At the moment of UEX, 61% of patients were agitated. The rates of mortality, laryngeal complications, nosocomial pneumonia after extubation, and the length of mechanical ventilation were similar in UEX and non-UEX patients. Patients were more often reintubated after UEX (28 of 46) than after planned extubation (28 of 284). All the non-reintubated UEX patients survived. One death occurred as a direct consequence of UEX. By use of multivariate analysis, we identified four factors contributing to UEX: chronic respiratory failure, endotracheal tube fixation with only thin adhesive tape, orotracheal intubation, and the lack of intravenous sedation. Considering these factors, we hypothesized that simple measures should be adopted to minimize the incidence of UEX and its related complications: more vigilance during procedures at patients' bedsides, adequate sedation of agitated patients, strong fixation of the tracheal tube, particular attention paid to orally intubated patients, and daily reassessment of the possibility of weaning from the ventilator.

Characteristics and outcomes of patients who self-extubate from ventilatory support: a case-control study

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with the occurrence of deliberate self-extubation and to describe associated patient outcomes.

DESIGN

Case-control study.

SETTING

ICUs of a national referral, tertiary medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty adult, intubated patients who had self-extubated from mechanical ventilatory support. Two control subjects who had not self-extubated were matched to each case based on age, gender, primary discharge diagnosis, and time hospitalized (within same quarter).

MEASUREMENTS

Standardized coding of medical record information, including demographic characteristics, clinical information, intubation and mechanical ventilation characteristics, medications, and selected laboratory indexes.

RESULTS

As compared to the control subjects, patients who self-extubated were more likely to be medical than surgical patients (p<0.001) and have a current history of smoking (p<0.05). Prior to the self-extubation, patients had a greater likelihood of hospital-acquired infections (p<0.001) or other hospital-acquired adverse events (p<0.001), abnormal (<10, >50 mg/dL) BUN (p<0.05), and abnormal (<20, >50 mm Hg) PaCO2 (p<0.05); they also were more likely to be restless or agitated (p<0.001), and more likely to be physically restrained (p<0.001). A logistic regression model demonstrated that presence of restlessness or agitation and presence of a hospital-acquired adverse event were independently associated with self-extubation from mechanical ventilatory support. In examining outcomes, as compared to the control subjects, those who self-extubated had longer lengths of stay in ICU and hospital, were more likely to need reintubation, and were more likely to suffer complications from intubation. However, none of the cases died within 48 h of self-extubation.

CONCLUSION

The results underscore the need for clinical guidelines for weaning and for monitoring patients at risk of self-extubation.

Endotracheal reintubation: a closer look at a preventable condition

We designed a prospective study of endotracheal intubations and reintubations in our inner city Level 1 Trauma Center, to determine the frequency and causes of reintubation and evaluate the impact of an educational intervention aimed at minimizing unplanned extubations (UEs). After an initial 3-month phase, efforts were instituted to educate healthcare providers to the causes of reintubation noted. An identical 3-month period was then studied to evaluate the efficacy of the interventions. There were 862 patients, all adults, in the initial phase of the study, with 40 reintubation events in 22 patients; of the 808 in the second phase, there were 16 reintubations in 13 patients. The reintubation rate decreased from 4.4% to 1.9% (p = 0.005). Reintubations after UEs decreased from 14% to 5.2% (rate ratio, 0.374; 95% confidence interval = 0.141, 0.990). Multiple reintubation events decreased from 45% to 18.8% (p = 0.07). Increased provider education and protocol changes were associated with lower reintubation rates.

Immediate tracheal extubation after liver transplantation: experience of two transplant centers

Early tracheal extubation has been safely performed after large operative procedures, questioning the need for routine postoperative ventilation. Because immediate postoperative tracheal extubation of liver transplantation patients has not been previously reported, we performed preliminary studies at two institutions to evaluate potential risk and cost benefit. At the University of Colorado (UC), extubation criteria were derived from the retrospective analysis of patients who were ventilated less than 8 h and experienced an intensive care unit stay less than 48 h in 1994. Preoperative criteria for age, severity of illness, and absence of encephalopathy and coexistent disease were used in a subsequent prospective study in 1995. Donor graft function, blood use, hemodynamic stability, and alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient served as intraoperative criteria. Cost of intensive care services was compared for the 1994 ventilated patients and the 1995 patients whose tracheas were extubated immediately postoperatively. At the second institution, University of California at San Francisco (UCSF), patients were tracheally extubated immediately postoperatively, based on clinical judgment by the anesthesiologist. A retrospective analysis was then completed. Sixteen of 67 patients at UC and 25 of 106 patients at UCSF were tracheally extubated. There were no reintubations at UC, while 2 of 25 patients at UCSF required reintubation. Prior encephalopathy, poor donor liver function, and an increased alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient were present in the patients who suffered perioperative respiratory failure. Seventeen of 25 patients at UCSF did not have all criteria used at UC but did not require reintubation. Wider limits on age and severity of illness did not preclude successful extubation. Cost analysis at UC showed a significant reduction in intensive care unit services and associated cost for extubated patients. We conclude that immediate postoperative tracheal extubation of selected liver transplantation patients is safe and cost effective.

Establishing alternatives to physical restraints in the acute care setting: a conceptual framework to assist nurses' decision making

Critical care and acute care nurses must determine ways to deliver optimal patient care without the use of physical restraints. This article explores the application of the clinical decision analysis model to the challenge of finding nonrestraint approaches to care. Clinical decision analysis is a structured, quantified approach for choosing an optimal course of action in a situation that involves tradeoffs among risks and preferences and when outcomes are uncertain. Decision analysis provides a graphic representation of the decision situation that facilitates evaluation of factors relevant to the situation and evaluation of the potential events and outcomes following a chosen strategy. The decision analysis model can be useful for determining guidelines for clinical practices, facilitating discussions among health care providers and patients, and determining areas in need of additional research.

Effectiveness of a continuous quality improvement program aiming to reduce unplanned extubation: a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of a continuous quality improvement (CQI) program in reducing the incidence of unplanned endotracheal extubation.

DESIGN

Prospective study over a 9-month period.

SETTING

Adult intensive care units (ICUs including coronary care unit, medical ICU, surgical ICU, and cardiovascular surgical ICU) in a university-affiliated medical center.

PATIENTS

831 consecutive mechanically ventilated patients.

INTERVENTIONS

CQI program focusing on standardization of procedures, improvement of communication, and identification and management of high-risk patients.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

With the implementation of this CQI program, the overall incidence density of unplanned extubation (defined as number of new unplanned extubations per mechanical ventilation patient-days) significantly decreased from 2.6% in the first trimester to 1.5% in the second trimester and 1.2% in the third trimester (p = 0.01). This reduction was essentially the result of a decrease in unplanned extubation in orally intubated patients (incidence density 4.6, 1.7 and 1.0% for three trimesters, respectively; p < 0.0001). Unplanned extubation in nasally intubated patients remained largely unaffected (1.2, 1.4, and 1.4% for three trimesters, respectively; p = 0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of a concerted CQI program is effective in reducing the overall incidence of unplanned endotracheal extubation.