Intoxicaciones agudas exógenas en niños y adolescentes ingresados en cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Exogenous acute poisonings in children and adolescents admitted in Pediatric intensive care services

Introducción: La utilización creciente de productos tóxicos a escala mundial ha generado un amplio espectro de problemas. El suicidio, entre ellos, constituye un problema de salud internacional. En Cuba ocupa el sexto lugar como causa de mortalidad general y el segundo en el grupo de 15 a 49 años. Objetivo: caracterizar algunas variables epidemiológicas relacionadas con las intoxicaciones exógenas agudas en infantes. Métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo retrospectivo en una muestra constituida por 142 pacientes. ingresados con el diagnóstico de intoxicación exógena en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos del Hospital General Docente Comandante Pinares de San Cristóbal, Artemisa, durante el periodo comprendido desde enero de 2008 a diciembre de 2016 Resultados: El grupo de 10-14 años representó la mayoría de la muestra para 39,4 por ciento y el 71,9. por ciento de esta muestra total correspondió al sexo femenino. El mayor porcentaje de las intoxicaciones ocurrieron de forma intencional (tentativa suicida) (64,1 por ciento). Los medicamentos ocuparon el primer lugar (87,3 por ciento) de los tóxicos identificados, el consumo de psicofármacos representó el 68,3 por ciento muchas veces asociado a la ingestión de alcohol (20,4 por ciento). Predominaron los síntomas neurológicos (66,3 por ciento), El lavado gástrico se le realizó en 79,6 por ciento y fue necesario realizar gastroenterodiálisis en 65,4 por ciento. Conclusiones: Las intoxicaciones exógenas constituyen una de las causas prevenibles que aportan incremento de la morbilidad y mortalidad en infantes. Su atención debe ser multidisciplinaria e intersectorial, lo que influirá positivamente en la calidad de vida de los grupos poblacionales vulnerables(AU)

Introduction: The increasing use of toxic products on a global scale has generated a broad spectrum of problems. Suicide, among them, is an international health problem. In Cuba, it is the sixth main cause of death and the second in the group of 15 to 49 years. Objective: To characterize some epidemiological variables related to exogenous acute poisonings in infants. Methods: An observational descriptive retrospective study was conducted in a sample of 142 patients admitted with the diagnosis of exogenous poisoning in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of Comandante Pinares General Teaching Hospital, San Cristóbal, Artemisa province, during the period from January 2008 to December 2016. Results: The group of 10-14 years represented the majority of the sample for a 39.4 percent, and the 71.9 percent of the total sample was female sex. The largest percentage of the poisonings were intentional (suicide attempt) (64.1percent). Drugs were the first (87.3 percent) of the toxic chemicals identified; the consumption of psychotropic drugs represented the 68.3 percent often associated with alcohol ingestion (20.4 percent). There was a predominance of neurological symptoms (66.3 percent). The gastric lavage was performed in 79.6 percent and it was necessary to perform gastroentero dyalisis in 65.4 percent. Conclusions: Exogenous poisonings are one of the preventable causes that increase morbidity and mortality in infants. Their attention must be with a multidisciplinary and intersectoral approach, which positively influences the quality of life of vulnerable population groups(AU)

Mechanical ventilation weaning practices in neonatal and pediatric ICUs in Brazil: the Weaning Survey-Brazil / Práticas de desmame da ventilação mecânica nas UTIs pediátricas e neonatais brasileiras: Weaning Survey-Brazil

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to describe practices for weaning from mechanical ventilation (MV), in terms of the use of protocols, methods, and criteria, in pediatric ICUs (PICUs), neonatal ICUs (NICUs), and mixed neonatal/pediatric ICUs (NPICUs) in Brazil. Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey carried out by sending an electronic questionnaire to a total of 298 NICUs, PICUs, and NPICUs throughout Brazil. Results: Completed questionnaires were assessed for 146 hospitals, NICUs accounting for 49.3% of the questionnaires received, whereas PICUs and NPICUs accounted for 35.6% and 15.1%, respectively. Weaning protocols were applied in 57.5% of the units. In the NICUs and NPICUs that used weaning protocols, the method of MV weaning most commonly employed (in 60.5% and 50.0%, respectively) was standardized gradual withdrawal from ventilatory support, whereas that employed in most (53.0%) of the PICUs was spontaneous breathing trial (SBT). During the SBTs, the most common ventilation mode, in all ICUs, was pressure-support ventilation (10.03 ± 3.15 cmH2O) with positive end-expiratory pressure. The mean SBT duration was 35.76 ± 29.03 min in the NICUs, compared with 76.42 ± 41.09 min in the PICUs. The SBT parameters, weaning ventilation modes, and time frame considered for extubation failure were not found to be dependent on the age profile of the ICU population. The findings of the clinical evaluation and arterial blood gas analysis are frequently used as criteria to assess readiness for extubation, regardless of the age group served by the ICU. Conclusions: In Brazil, the clinical practices for weaning from MV and extubation appear to vary depending on the age group served by the ICU. It seems that weaning protocols and SBTs are used mainly in PICUs, whereas gradual withdrawal from ventilatory support is more widely used in NICUs and NPICUs.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever as práticas de desmame da ventilação mecânica (VM), quanto ao uso de protocolos, métodos e critérios, em UTIs pediátricas (UTIPs), neonatais (UTINs) e mistas - neonatais e pediátricas (UTINPs) - no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, tipo inquérito, realizado por meio do envio de questionário eletrônico a 298 UTINs, UTIPs e UTINPs de todo o país. Resultados: Foram avaliados 146 questionários respondidos (49,3% recebidos de UTINs, 35,6%, de UTIPs e 15,1%, de UTINPs). Das unidades pesquisadas, 57,5% aplicavam protocolos de desmame. Nas UTINs e UTINPs que utilizavam esses protocolos, o método de desmame da VM mais empregado (em 60,5% e 50,0%, respectivamente) foi a redução gradual padronizada do suporte ventilatório, enquanto o empregado na maioria (53,0%) das UTIPs foi o teste de respiração espontânea (TRE). Durante o TRE, o modo ventilatório predominante em todas as UTIs foi a ventilação com pressão de suporte (10,03 ± 3,15 cmH2O) com pressão expiratória final positiva. A duração média do TRE foi de 35,76 ± 29,03 min nas UTINs, contra 76,42 ± 41,09 min nas UTIPs. Os parâmetros do TRE, modos ventilatórios de desmame e tempo considerado para falha de extubação não se mostraram dependentes do perfil etário da população das UTIs. Os resultados da avaliação clínica e da gasometria arterial são frequentemente utilizados como critérios para avaliar a prontidão para extubação, independentemente da faixa etária atendida pela UTI. Conclusões: No Brasil, a prática clínica na condução do desmame da VM e extubação varia de acordo com a faixa etária atendida pela UTI. Protocolos de desmame e o TRE são utilizados principalmente nas UTIPs, enquanto a redução gradual do suporte ventilatório é mais utilizada nas UTINs e UTINPs.

Ambiente de terapia intensiva pediátrica: implicações para a assistência da criança e de sua família / Entorno de cuidados intensivos pediátricos: implicaciones para la asistencia del niño y su familia / Environment of pediatric intensive care: implications for the assistance of the child and their family

Objetivo caracterizar a produção científica nacional e internacional acerca do ambiente da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica e sua influência na assistência à criança e à sua família. Método revisão integrativa realizada de setembro a dezembro de 2018. As fontes de informação foram: LILACS, SciELO, CINAHL, PubMed e CAPES, com recorte temporal emergindo da busca (2004 a 2018). Resultados os 38 estudos selecionados apresentaram o ambiente em sua estrutura física; ambiente como influenciador nas condutas da equipe de saúde e direcionamento da assistência; ambiente como espaço de trocas de experiências e vivências; e ambiente como mediador de relações entre equipe de enfermagem, criança e sua família. Conclusão o ambiente da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica deve contemplar conforto e privacidade para a criança e sua família, além de proporcionar autonomia para a equipe.

Objetivo caracterizar la producción científica nacional e internacional sobre el ambiente de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos y su influencia en la atención a niños y sus familias. Método revisión integradora, llevada a cabo de septiembre a diciembre de 2018. Fuentes de información: LILACS, SciELO, CINAHL, PubMed y CAPES, con recorte temporario de la búsqueda (2004 a 2018). Resultados 38 estudios seleccionados presentaron el ambiente en su estructura física; ambiente como factor de influencia en la conducta del equipo de salud y dirección de la atención; como espacio de intercambio de experiencias; y como mediador de las relaciones entre personal de enfermería, niños y familias. Conclusión el ambiente de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos debe incluir comodidad y privacidad para niño y familia, así como proporcionar autonomía para el equipo.

Objective to characterize the national and international scientific production on the environment of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and its influence on the assistance to the child and their family. Method integrative review conducted from September to December 2018. The sources of information were: LILACS, SciELO, CINAHL, PubMed and CAPES, with temporal clipping emerging from the search (2004 to 2018). Results the 38 selected studies showed the environment in its physical structure; environment as influencer of the health team's behavior and targeting of assistance; environment as a space of exchanges of experiences; and the environment as a mediator of relations between nursing staff, child and their family. Conclusion the environment of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit should contemplate privacy and comfort for the child and their family, in addition to providing autonomy to the team.

Sedación y analgesia en pacientes con asistencia ventilatoria mecánica en unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos de Argentina / Sedation and analgesia in patients on mechanical ventilation in pediatric intensive care units in Argentina

Introducción. Los niños en unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos (UCIP) están expuestos a padecer dolor, estrés y ansiedad debido a su enfermedad, el tratamiento o el ambiente. La adecuada sedación y analgesia son fundamentales para su cuidado, especialmente, en aquellos que requieren asistencia ventilatoria mecánica (AVM). Objetivo. Determinar la práctica habitual en la sedación y analgesia de los pacientes que requieren ARM en UCIP de Argentina. Material y métodos. Estudio descriptivo, transversal, multicéntrico, realizado a través de encuestas enviadas por correo electrónico. Resultados. Se encuestaron y respondieron 45 UCIP. El 18% (N= 8) utiliza un protocolo de sedoanalgesia de seguimiento estricto, mientras que el 58% (N= 26) siguen un protocolo "tácito" producto de la automatización en la práctica. Las drogas más utilizadas son el midazolam para sedación y fentanilo para analgesia. El 31% (N= 14) de las UCIP monitorizan la sedación con escalas de evaluación (Ramsay modificada y/o Comfort). El 4% (N= 2) realizan la interrupción diaria de la sedación en forma programada. En pacientes de difícil sedación, la dexmedetomidina es la droga más utilizada como coadyuvante. El 73% (N= 33) de las unidades utilizan bloqueantes neuromusculares ante indicaciones precisas, y un monitoreo clínico. El 20% (N= 9) de las UCIP tienen un protocolo de destete para la sedoanalgesia, la morfina y lorazepam son las drogas más frecuentemente utilizadas. Conclusión. Existe un bajo porcentaje de protocolización en la práctica habitual del manejo de la sedoanalgesia en pacientes con AVM en las UCIP encuestadas.

Introduction. Children in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) are exposed to experiencing pain, stress and anxiety due to their disease, treatment or care setting. Adequate sedation and analgesia are key to their care, particularly in patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). Objective. To determine the usual practice in sedation and analgesia management in patients requiring MV in PICUs in Argentina. Material and methods. Descriptive, crosssectional, multi-center study conducted by means of e-mailed surveys. Results. A total of 45 PICUs were surveyed, 18% (N= 8) of which follow a sedation and analgesia protocol strictly, while 58% (N= 26) follow an "implied" protocol based on routine practice. The most commonly used drugs were midazolam, for sedation, and fentanyl, for analgesia. In 31% (N= 14) of the PICUs, sedation was monitored through assessment scales (modified Ramsay and/or Comfort scales). In 4% (N= 2) of units, daily, scheduled interruptions of sedation was implemented. In patients who are difficult to sedate, dexmedetomidine was the most commonly used adjuvant. In 73% (N= 33) of the units, neuromuscular blocking agents were used in compliance with precise guidelines and under clinical monitoring. In 20% (N= 9) of the PICUs there was a sedation and analgesia weaning protocol in place, and morphine and lorazepam are the most commonly used drugs. Conclusion. Only a low percentage of surveyed PICUs had a protocol in place for the routine management of sedation and analgesia in patients on MV.

Assessment of the prescription of red blood cell concentrates in the pediatric age group / Avaliação da prescrição de concentrados de hemácias na faixa etária pediátrica

Summary Objective: To verify the adequacy of red blood cell (RBC) prescription to pediatric patients in different sectors of a pediatric hospital. Method: A retrospective study was conducted including 837/990 RBC transfusion requisition forms for children and adolescents (0 to 13 years old) filed in between January 2007 and April 2015 by the pediatricians of the emergency room (ER), infirmary ward and intensive care unit (pICU). Transfusion requisition forms belonging to patients with chronic anemia or acute hemorrhage, as well as incompletes requisition forms, were excluded. Results: Trigger, prescribed volume and subtype of RBC concentrates were adequate in 532 (65.3%), 460 (58.8%) and 805 (96.2%) of the transfusions, respectively. When the clinical picture was considered, prescription adequacy was higher compared to the use of the hemoglobin level alone (70.9% vs. 41%). The pICU had the highest correct trigger percentage (343 [71.6%]; p<0.001) while the ER showed more often adequate prescribed volumes (119 [66.1%]; p=0.020). The most common inadequacy regarding volume was that of prescriptions above the recommendation > 15 mL/kg found in 309 cases (36.9%). Thirty-two (32) RBC subtypes were requested and none were consistent with current recommendations. Conclusion: The results obtained in our study showed that RBC transfusion occurred more appropriately when the clinical picture was taken into account at request. There was a tendency to prescribe higher volumes and RBC subtypes without the justification of current protocols. Hemotherapic teachings at undergraduate level and medical residency must be improved.

Resumo Objetivo: Verificar a adequação na prescrição de concentrado de hemácias (CH) por pediatras em diferentes setores de um hospital pediátrico. Método: Realizou-se estudo retrospectivo onde avaliamos 837/990 fichas de requisição de CH para crianças e adolescentes (0 a 13 anos), preenchidas entre janeiro de 2007 e abril de 2015 pelos médicos pediatras do pronto-socorro (PS), da enfermaria e da unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI). Excluíram-se as transfusões realizadas em portadores de anemia crônica, crianças com hemorragia aguda e requisições incompletas. Resultados: Gatilho, volume prescrito e subtipo de concentrado de hemácias foram adequados em 532 (65,3%), 460 (58,8%) e 805 (96,2%) das transfusões, respectivamente. Quando foi considerado o quadro clínico, a adequação foi maior em comparação à prescrição pelo valor isolado da hemoglobina (70,9% vs. 41%). A UTI teve o maior percentual de acerto no gatilho (343 [71,6%]; p<0,001) e o PS, no volume prescrito (119 [66,1%]; p=0,020). A inadequação mais comum, em relação ao volume, foi a prescrição acima da recomendação (> 15 mL/kg, 309 [36,9%]). Foram solicitados 32 subtipos de CH e nenhum estava de acordo com as indicações atuais. Conclusão: Os resultados obtidos mostram que a transfusão de CH aconteceu de forma mais adequada quando a situação clínica era levada em conta na solicitação. Houve uma tendência à prescrição de volumes elevados e de subtipos de hemácias não justificados segundo os protocolos atuais. É necessário melhorar o ensino de hemoterapia na graduação e residência médica.

Limitación de tratamiento de soporte vital en una Unidad de Cuidado Intensivo pediátrica chilena: 2004-2014 / Limitation of Vital Support in a Chilean Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: 2004-2014

Resumen Objetivo: Describir las frecuencias y características del proceso de Limitación de Tratamiento de So porte Vital (LTSV) en pacientes de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos (UCI) entre 2004 2014. Pacientes y Método: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional descriptivo a partir de dos registros de la UCI del Hospital Roberto del Río: 1) ficha clínica individual de seguimiento y 2) ficha de registro de indicadores de calidad incluida LTSV, ambos actualizados diariamente al iniciar la visita clínica. Desde estos registros se analizaron los casos con dilemas bioéticos en los que se propuso LTSV du rante su hospitalización en UCI ("LTSV intra-UCI"). Se menciona la población rechazada de ingresar a UCI ("LTSV pre-UCI") y los fallecidos con LTSV en cama básica. Resultados: De 7.821 ingresos a UCI en el 1,51% (118 pacientes) se establece una LTSV: ONI (Orden de No Innovación) en 78,8% de los casos, retiro de medidas terapéuticas en 14,4% y suspensión de ventilación mecánica en 6,8%. En 23,7% el diagnóstico de base fue neurológico u oncológico, para cada uno. La condición fisiopatológica predominante para una LTSV fue neurológica (39%). El tiempo de estadía en UCI triplica el promedio de estada de los egresos totales de UCI, pero es de amplia variabilidad. Conclusiones: Es factible realizar una LTSV en UCI cuando el equipo incorpora esta perspectiva al trabajo diario junto a la familia. Hay una amplia variabilidad individual en las características del proceso de LTSV, propio del ámbito de la ética clínica.

Abstract Objective: Describe the frequency and characteristics of PICU patients who undergo a process of withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment (LTSV), between 2004 y 2014. Patients and Method: A retrospective, observational descriptive study, using two documents for quality assessment in the PICU of Hospital Roberto del Río: 1) daily individual patient tracking log and 2) daily record of quality indicators, including LTSV, both updated daily at the morning visit. All PICU patients with an ethical dilemma during their PICU stay in which a LTSV was proposed were included. We men tion patients rejected for admission in the ICU and those who died in basic units of the hospital with LTSV. Results: In 118 patients of 7821 PICU admissions (1,5%) we determined a LTSV: ONR (Non Resuscitation Order) for all of them, ONI (Non Innovation Order) in 78,8%, withdrawal of some therapeutics in 14,4% and withdrawal of active mechanical ventilation in 6,8%. The basic diagnosis was 23,7% for each neurologic and oncologic diseases. The predominant pathophysiologic condition leading to a LTSV was severe chronic neurologic damage (39%). The length of stay was threefold the mean PICU stay, with a large variability due to expectable individual factors when ethic decisions are involved. Conclusion: LTSV is feasible when the team is involved and this perspective is part of daily clinical analysis. The wide individual variability in the LTSV process is expectable in ethical decisions.

Implementación de una lista de cotejo para mejorar la adherencia a prácticas basadas en evidencia en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos / Implementation of a checklist to increase adherence to evidence-based practices in a single pediatric intensive care unit

Introducción. El uso de listas de cotejo para mejorar la adherencia a prácticas basadas en evidencia en unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos no está generalizado. El objetivo del estudio fue, mediante una lista específicamente diseñada, alcanzar el 90% de adherencia a las prácticas estudiadas. Población y métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental tipo serie de tiempo en niños ventilados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Las prácticas estudiadas fueron ventana de sedación, presión plateau ≤ 30 cmH2O, fracción inspirada de oxígeno ≤ 60%, cabecera a 30º, higiene bucal con clorhexidina, recambio semanal del circuito del respirador, preferencia de alimentación enteral, disminución del umbral de transfusiones (hemoglobina: 7 g/dl), consideración diaria de prueba de respiración espontánea y de retiro de catéter central. La lista fue utilizada durante el pase de sala, por médicos de planta responsables de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos , como intervención para mejorar la adherencia y herramienta de registro. Se consideró observación a cada formulario completado diariamente. Las observaciones fueron clasificadas como defectuosas si no hubo adherencia a uno o más ítems. La adherencia (proporción de observaciones sin defecto) se resume en el gráfico de control. Resultados. El estudio abarcó 420 días. Se internaron732pacientes; 218 recibieronventilación mecánica; se realizaron 1201 observaciones y 1191 fueron incluidas. El gráfico de control con horizonte temporal de 14 meses mostró un aumento de adherencia, un patrón de variabilidad de causa especial en los últimos 3 meses y adherencia > 90% en los últimos dos. Conclusiones. El uso de la lista de cotejo permitió mejorar la adherencia a las prácticas estudiadas y alcanzar más de 90% en los últimos 2 meses.

Introduction. The use of checklists to increase adherence to evidence-based practices is not yet widespread in pediatric intensive care units. The objective of this study was to achieve 90% compliance with studied practices using an ad hoc checklist. Population and methods. Time series quasiexperimental study conducted in ventilated children hospitalized in the pediatric intensive care unit. Studied practices included sedation breaks, plateau pressure ≤ 30 cm H2O, fraction of inspired oxygen ≤ 60%, maintenance of headboard at > 30°, chlorhexidine mouthwash, weekly ventilator circuit changes, preference for enteral feeding, reduction in the threshold for blood transfusions (hemoglobin: 7 g/dL), daily consideration of spontaneous breathing trials and central venous catheter removal. The checklist was used during ward rounds by the staff physicians in charge of the pediatric intensive care unit as part of an intervention to increase adherence and as a tracking tool. Each form completed on a daily basis was considered an observation. Observations were classified as defective in the case of non-compliance with one or more items. Adherence (the rate of nondefective units of observation) is summarized in the control chart. Results. The study period lasted 420 days. A total of 732 patients were hospitalized; 218 underwent mechanical ventilation; 1201 observations were made, and 1191 were included in the study. The control chart with a 14-month time horizon showed increased adherence, a special cause variation pattern in the last 3 months of the study period, and > 90% compliance over the last 2 months. Conclusions. The implementation of a checklist increased adherence to studied practices and achieved more than 90% compliance over the last 2 months of the study period.

El ácido láctico y la escala SEGRAV-23 como valores pronósticos de gravedad en niños críticos / Lactic acid and SEGRAV-23 scale as predictive values of severity in critically-ill children

INTRODUCCIÓN: los sistemas de valoración de la gravedad son medios para cuantificar objetivamente la situación clínica del paciente, determinar el pronóstico y evaluar la eficacia y eficiencia del tratamiento. El lactato es un biomarcador que ha demostrado su magnífica capacidad predictiva de mortalidad, lo que hace que se mantenga dentro de las recomendaciones de expertos y en todas las guías relevantes. OBJETIVO: determinar el pronóstico de gravedad del ácido láctico y del índice Sistema para evaluar la gravedad de las enfermedades (SEGRAV-23), en niños ingresados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos en el periodo febrero de 2011 a febrero de 2013. MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico, longitudinal y prospectivo en el cual se estudiaron 208 pacientes ingresados en las unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos de los hospitales "Dr. Luis Díaz Soto" y "Juan Manuel Márquez", en el periodo de febrero de 2011 a febrero de 2013. Para determinar el grado de dependencia entre vivos y fallecidos en el índice SEGRAV-23 y los valores del lactato, se utilizó el chi cuadrado de Pearson con una p menor de 0,05 para garantizar una confiabilidad de un 95 %. RESULTADOS: con respecto al SEGRAV-23 y los valores de lactato se observó que el 32,3 % de los pacientes con lactato entre 5-7 mmol/L se mantuvo con el reporte de muy graves, y el 14,7 % críticos. El 43,7 % de los fallecidos presentaron SEGRAV-23 mayor de 21 puntos. El 35,3 % de los pacientes que presentaron cifras de lactato al ingreso entre 5-7 mmol/L fallecieron. A los 10 días de estadía se evidenció que el 72,7 % de los pacientes que presentaron cifras de lactato entre 5-7 mmol/L fallecieron, al igual que el 80 % de los que tuvieron una hiperlactoacidemia mayor de 7 mmol/L. CONCLUSIONES: el ácido láctico y la escala SEGRAV-23 tienen una aceptable capacidad pronóstica y son buenos indicadores de gravedad del paciente crítico.

INTRODUCTION: the severity scoring systems are means to objectively quantify the patient's clinical situation, to determine the prognosis and to evaluate the efficacy and efficiency of the treatment. Lactate is a biomarker that has demonstrated its great predictive capacity for mortality, which keeps it included in the experts' recommendation and in all relevant guidelines. OBJECTIVE: to determine the severity prognosis of the lactic acid and of the index System for Evaluating the Severity of Diseases (SEGRAV-23) in children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit in the period of February 2011 to February 2013. METHODS: prospective, longitudinal, analytical and observational study of 208 patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care units in "Dr Luis Diaz Soto" and "Juan Manuel Márquez" hospitals, conducted from February 2011 to February 2013. For the purpose of determining the level of dependence between the living and dead people in the SEGRAV-23 index and the lactate values, Pearson's chi square with p< 0.05 was used to assure 95 % reliability. RESULTS: regarding SEGRAV-23 and the lactate values, it was observed that 32.3 % of patients with 5-7 mmol/L lactate continued to be reported as severely-ill and 14.7 % as critical patients. In the group of dead people, 43.7 % had a SEGRAV-23 index higher than 21 scores whereas 35.3 % of patients with lactate values of 5 to 7 mmol/L on admission died. After ten days of hospitalization, it was evinced that 72.7 % of patients who had 5-7 mmol/L lactate values died as it happened with 80 % of those with over 7 mmol/L hyperlactoacidemia. CONCLUSIONS: lactic acid and the SEGRAV-23 scale have acceptable prognostic capacity and are good severity indicators in critically-ill patients.

Echocardiography in PICU: when the heart sees what is invisible to the eye / Ecocardiografia na UTIP: quando o coração vê o que é invisível aos olhos

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: Echocardiography has become an indispensable bedside diagnostic tool in the realm of pediatric intensive care units (PICU). It has proven to be an influential factor in the formula of clinical decision-making. This study aimed to delineate the impact of echocardiography on the management of critically ill pediatric patients in the PICU at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Oman. METHOD: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in a five-bed PICU. Patients admitted to the PICU from January of 2011 to December of 2012 were reviewed. Those who have undergone bedside echocardiography during their ICU stay were recruited. Electronic patient record was used as data source. RESULTS: Over a-24-month period, 424 patients were admitted in this PICU. One hundred and one clinically indicated transthoracic echocardiograms were performed. 81.8% of these presented new findings (n = 82) that significantly impacted the clinical decision of patient management, namely, alteration in drug therapy and procedure, whereas no difference in the management was yielded in the remaining 17.8% of the studied cases. CONCLUSIONS: Echocardiography had a significant impact on the management of PICU patients. Such salutary effect was consequently reflected on the outcome. Pediatric intensivists are encouraged to acquire such bedside skill.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: A ecocardiografia se tornou uma ferramenta de diagnóstico relevante, indispensável no âmbito das unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica (UTIP). Ela se tornou um fator influente na tomada de decisões clínicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi delinear o impacto da ecocardiografia sobre o manejo de pacientes pediátricos gravemente doentes na UTIP do Hospital Universitário Sultan Qaboos, em Omã. MÉTODO: Este é um estudo de coorte retrospectivo feito em uma UTIP de cinco leitos. Foram analisados pacientes internados na UTIP entre janeiro de 2011 e dezembro de 2012. Foram recrutados os pacientes que passaram por ecocardiografia durante sua internação na UTI. O registro eletrônico dos pacientes foi usado como fonte de dados. RESULTADOS: Em 24 meses, 424 pacientes foram internados em nossa UTIP, 101 pacientes foram encaminhados para ecocardiografias transtorácicas, 81,8% deles tiveram novos achados (n = 82) que afetaram significativamente a decisão clínica, como a terapia medicamentosa e os procedimentos, ao passo que não houve diferença no manejo nos outros 17,8% dos casos estudados. CONCLUSÕES: A ecocardiografia teve um impacto significativo sobre o manejo de pacientes da UTIP. Esse efeito refletiu-se nos resultados. Os intensivistas pediátricos devem ser incentivados a adquirir essa habilidade relevante.

Sedação e analgesia em crianças: uma abordagem prática para as situações mais freqüentes / Analgesia and sedation in children: practical approach for the most frequent situations

OBJETIVOS: Revisar as indicações, doses e formas de administração dos sedativos, analgésicos e relaxantes musculares mais utilizados na criança, bem como os métodos de monitorização da sedação. FONTES DOS DADOS: Levantamento bibliográfico utilizando a base de dados MEDLINE e revisão da experiência em nossas unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos. SíNTESE DOS DADOS: A administração contínua de drogas analgésicas e sedativas impede o aparecimento das fases de subsedação e requer menor assistência do que na administração intermitente. O midazolan é a droga mais utilizada para sedação contínua da criança gravemente enferma. Os derivados opiáceos e os antiinflamatórios não-hormonais são os analgésicos mais utilizados na criança gravemente enferma. Os opióides associados aos benzodiazepínicos em infusão contínua são os fármacos de eleição em crianças em ventilação mecânica, especialmente a morfina e o fentanil. O uso de protocolos e a monitorização com a utilização de escores clínicos e métodos objetivos como o BIS permitem ajustar mais corretamente a medicação, evitando a supersedação, a subsedação e a síndrome de abstinência. As intervenções não-farmacológicas, como a musicoterapia, o controle de ruídos, a adequada utilização da luz, a massagem e a comunicação com o paciente, são medidas complementares que auxiliam na adaptação da criança ao ambiente hospitalar adverso. CONCLUSÕES: A sedação deve ser adaptada a cada criança em cada momento. O emprego de protocolos que facilitem uma correta seleção de fármacos, uma administração adequada e uma monitorização cuidadosa melhoram a qualidade da sedoanalgesia e reduzem seus efeitos adversos.

OBJECTIVES: To review the most frequent recommendations, doses and routes of administration of sedatives, analgesics, and muscle relaxants in children, as well as the methods for monitoring the level of sedation. SOURCES: Review of the literature using the MEDLINE database and review of the experience in pediatric intensive care units. SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS: The continuous administration of analgesics and sedatives prevents the development of undersedation and is less demanding in terms of care than intermittent administration. Midazolam is the most commonly used drug for continuous sedation of critically ill children. Opioid derivatives and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most widely used analgesics in critically ill children. Opioids combined with benzodiazepines, given in continuous infusion, are the drugs of choice in mechanically ventilated children, especially morphine and fentanyl. The use of protocols and monitoring through clinical scores and objective methods (e.g. bispectral index) allow adjusting medication more appropriately, preventing oversedation, undersedation, and the withdrawal syndrome. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as music therapy, noise control, adequate use of light, massage, conversation with the patient, are ancillary measures that help children to adapt to the adverse hospital environment. CONCLUSIONS: Sedation should be tailored to each child for each specific situation. Protocols that facilitate the correct selection of drugs, their appropriate administration and careful monitoring improve the quality of sedation and analgesia and avoid their adverse effects.

Comparison of physical space of pediatric wards in Isfahan Hospitals with standards

Pediatric wards are places for care of children with physical and psychological problems. These places should be designed to reduce anxiety and Cather for children's emotional and physical needs. This research aimed to assess physical spaces of pediatric wards in Isfahan hospitals during 1384 with comparison to standards. This is a descriptive study. A valid and reliable checklist was used for data collection. Data were collected personally by the researcher. Data were analyzed using SPSS. University affiliated hospitals had a better standard [81.25%] design and architecture compare to other hospitals. [Educational, Treatment and Welfare] units at university affiliated hospitals were better than non university hospitals. University affiliated hospitals were providing a better standard on [welfare facilities] [74.96%] compared to others. Physical spaces of pediatric wards at Isfahan hospitals are appropriate

Bioética y atención pediátrica / Bioethics and paediatrics attention

La real dicotomía entre problemas éticos y aspectos éticos de la práctica pediátrica está fundamentada en el reduccionismo, que implica adoptar el dilema como prototipo de problema en la práctica médica. Se muestra cómo el sentido común y las buenas intenciones son no sólo insuficientes, sino verdaderos generadores de problemas; en cambio, la reflexión ponderada y cuidadosa, apoyada en el objeto del acto médico, permite tomar determinaciones más ajustadas a la realidad personal del paciente, a su dignidad, que se concretan en pautas de acción éticas. La reflexión sobre los aspectos éticos de la atención pediátrica se centra en tres campos: la atención primaria, la cirugía pediátrica y las unidades de cuidado intensivo (UCI). En el primer campo se revisan conceptos como la relación médico-paciente, el tipo de atención sanitaria, la toma de decisiones y la organización de los centros de asistencia pediátrica. Se aprovecha el segundo campo para hacer un comentario que distingue dos versiones de la Bioética: el principialismo y el personalismo. Finalmente, al hablar de las UCI se ofrecen algunas pautas, que intentan responder a las principales inquietudes que surgen en esas unidades de atención especializada.

Outcome of pediatric oncologic patients in the respiratory intensive care unit: Siriraj Hospital.

OBJECTIVES: To review the characteristics and outcome of patients with childhood malignancy requiring respiratory intensive care treatment and to assess the outcome of these patients. DESIGN: Retrospective review of 22 oncological patients admitted to the pediatric respiratory intensive care unit between January 1, 1996 and December 31, 1998 (total 3 years.) RESULTS: The overall survival at discharge from the intensive care unit was 10 out of 22 (45%). The mean age of the patients was 4 years 5 months old (range 1 month to 14 years). Male:Female ratio was 1.2:1.21 patients had fever. All patients with a systemic or respiratory infective illness were neutropenic with a positive hemoculture in 17 out of 21 (81%) and 10 out of 20 (50%), respectively. The most common organisms detected were coagulase negative Staphylococcal aureus and Escherichia Coli. Sputum culture in the respiratory failure group was positive in 3 out of 7 patients, all of them grew Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotics were given to all oncological patients presenting with fever. The most common antibiotics administered were Ceftazidime, Amikacin and Imipenem. Fourteen patients needed mechanical ventilation. 11 of these 14 patients had respiratory tract infections, 1 patient had acute respiratory distress syndrome and the remainder were in a coma as a result of brain metastasis. Only 2 of them survived. The mean duration of stay in the respiratory intensive care unit was 10.9 days. CONCLUSIONS: There has been an improvement in the survival of oncology patients admitted to the intensive care unit especially for those with either a systemic or respiratory infection. Early and full intensive care treatment should be provided for these patients in order to improve the outcome.

Status epiléptico en una unidad de terapia intensiva pediátrica / Status epilepticus in an unit of pediatric intensive care

Objetivo: Analizar retrospectivamente la epidemiología de pacientes con Status Epiléptico. Diseño: Trabajo retrospectivo y descriptivo. Lugar: Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Pacientes: Los comprendidos entre 1 mes y 16 años (n = 54). Mediciones y principales resultados: Edad media: 37 meses, n mediana: 22 meses. El 54,7 por ciento fueron menores de 2 años, con leve predominio masculino. La etiología fue febril en un 11 por ciento, injuria aguda: 48 por ciento; injuria remota: 32 por ciento e idiopática en un 7 por ciento. Como forma de presentación fueron generalizadas en un 56 por ciento; focales en un 27,8 por ciento y secundariamente generalizadas en un 16,7 por ciento. Las complicaciones se presentaron en 11 pacientes (20 por ciento), entre ellas sepsis 45 por ciento; NAR en un 27 por ciento y SDRA en un 9 por ciento. La mortalidad global fue de un 22,5 por ciento (12 pacientes). Tuvieron mayor riesgo de muerte los pacientes con altos valores de PRISM (OR 1,23 p < 0,018) y los que presentaban complicaciones (OR 19,4 p = 0,0041). El uso de Tiopental se asoció significativamente a mayor mortalidad (p = 0,0031). Conclusión: La mortalidad de nuestra serie fue alta, probablemente debido a la gravedad de los pacientes estudiados. El PRISM alto, las complicaciones, el uso de Tiopental, y el uso de ARM, son variables que influyen negativamente en la evolución de los pacientes con Status Epiléptico