Computerized Physician Order Entry May Improve ICU Care

(Wednesday, October 25, 2006, 2:30 PM EST)

Intensive care unit (ICU) safety protocols may be improved with use of the computerized physician order entry (CPOE) systems, says a new study. The system, which allows physicians to order medications or laboratory results via a computer, alerts physicians when a potential error is made. Researchers from Baystate Medical Center evaluated medication use in ICU patients, one year proceeding and one year following CPOE implementation. In the year following CPOE transitioning, medication administration for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increased by 12 percent. In addition, the use of compression devices for stress ulcers increased by eight percent. Researchers concluded that CPOE systems might be associated with improved ICU care.

Obesity Associated With Bloodstream Infection Survival

(Wednesday, October 25, 2006, 2:30 PM EST)

Bloodstream infections have a high mortality rate among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. However, a new study shows that obese patients may have a survival advantage in this condition. The relationship between body mass index (BMI), survival, and hospital outcomes was evaluated in 183 critically ill patients with bloodstream infections. Researchers from Geisinger Medical Center grouped patients by their BMI ranges and made between-group comparisons for survival with hospital discharge. Researchers found that 38 percent of patients died during hospitalization. Of those who survived, obese patients were shown to have increased survival, compared with non-obese patients. Researchers concluded that the response to bloodstream infections in obese patients might lead to development of effective treatment for patients of all body types.

Telemedicine Provides Support and Enhances Physician Compliance

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Contact: Jennifer Stawarz
jstawarz@chestnet.org
847-498-8306
American College of Chest Physicians
25-Oct-2006