Core Critical Care – serie

Despite increasing interest in intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) as causes of significant morbidity and mortality among the critically ill, unanswered questions cloud the understanding of the pathophysiology of these conditions: • Are IAH and ACS synonymous? • What are the ideal methods of measuring and lowering intra-abdominal pressure (IAP)? • When should we think of IAH? • Can IAH be prevented? • What level of IAP requires abdominal decompression? Written by two experts in critical care and IAP, Intra-Abdominal Hypertension is a distillation of the current literature and furthers the understanding of these complex critical conditions. Using a step-by-step approach and illustrative figures, this clinical handbook presents a concise overview of consensus definitions, measurement methods, organ assessment and treatment options. Intra-Abdominal Hypertension is essential reading for all members of the intensive care multidisciplinary team, including experienced and junior physicians, anesthetists and nurses.

The complex IT requirements of a critical care unit have led to the development of numerous information systems. In this concise handbook, the authors share their experience and research findings on how to unleash the power of the technology and overcome potential problems. Clinical Information Systems in Critical Care explains the key aspects of the information systems currently available, covering topics such as how to select the best system to match the requirements of a critical care unit, the issues surrounding data maintenance, patient confidentiality and the concept of the paperless patient record. It discusses both the benefits that may justify investment in the technology and hurdles that may arise, and offers advice for avoiding common problems. Clinical Information Systems in Critical Care is essential reading for all clinicians and health managers involved in developing, implementing, maintaining and using clinical information systems.

The fully updated second edition of this popular handbook concisely summarises all current knowledge about delirium in critically ill patients and describes simple tools the bedside clinician can use to prevent, diagnose and manage delirium. Chapters discuss new developments in assessing risk and diagnosis, crucial discoveries regarding delirium and long-term cognitive outcomes, and dangers of sedation and death. Updated management advice reflects new evidence about antipsychotics and delirium. This book explains how to minimise the risks of delirium, drugs to avoid, drugs to use and when to use them, as well as current theories regarding pathophysiology, different motoric subtypes leading to missed diagnosis, and the adverse impact of delirium on patient outcomes. While there are still unanswered questions, this edition contains all the available answers. Illustrated with real-life case reports, Delirium in Critical Care is essential reading for trainees, consultants and nurses in the ICU and emergency department.