Critical Care Alert – January 1, 2011

January 1, 2011

• Special Feature: Evaluation for Extubation

  Extubation is defined as removal of the endotracheal tube. The decision to extubate is usually based on three considerations: 1) need for invasive respiratory support; 2) patency of the upper airway; and 3) ability to clear secretions from the lower respiratory tract.

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• Abstract & Commentary: Early Aggressive Therapy to Reduce Serum Lactate Levels Improves Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients

  Carried out in four ICUs in the Netherlands, this study evaluated the effects of a serum lactate-guided resuscitation protocol during initial management of critically ill patients with elevated lactate levels, as compared to standard management not guided by serial lactate measurements.

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• Abstract & Commentary: Feasibility of Early Mobilization Therapy in Mechanically Ventilated Patients

  Intensive care unit (ICU) survivors experience various morbidities that can limit long-term recovery. One of the most common problems, neuromuscular weakness, has been

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• Pharmacology Watch: Rivaroxaban: Another Warfarin Replacement

  In this issue: Rivaroxaban may be dabigatran's first competitor; a new way to measure non-adherence to medication therapy; FDA Actions.

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• Clinical Briefs in Primary Care supplement

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