Percepción de la cultura de seguridad del paciente en un área de críticos / Perception of the safety culture in a critical area

Introducción: El área de críticos (AC) es una de las más complejas dentro del sistema hospitalario, se requiere un elevado número de intervenciones e información, por tanto, son susceptibles de padecer más incidentes que comprometan la seguridad del paciente. Objetivo: Determinar la percepción de la cultura de seguridad del paciente del equipo asistencial en un área de críticos. Método: Estudio descriptivo transversal, septiembre de 2021, en un AC polivalente con 45 camas, 118 sanitarios (médicos, enfermeras, técnicos en cuidados auxiliares de enfermería). Se recogieron variables sociodemográficas, conocimiento del responsable en seguridad del paciente (SP), formación en SP y en el sistema de notificación de incidentes. Se utilizó el cuestionario validado Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture que evalúa 12 dimensiones. Se consideró una dimensión como fortaleza con ≥ 75% respuestas positivas y debilidad con ≥ 50% respuestas negativas. Estadística descriptiva y análisis bivariante: prueba de χ2 y t de Student, y ANOVA. Significación estadística p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: Se recogieron 94 cuestionarios (79,7% muestra). La valoración del grado de SP fue 7,1 (1,2) sobre 10. El personal polivalente la puntuó con 6,9 (1,2) vs. 7,8 (0,9) del personal sin rotación (p = 0,04); 54,3% (n = 51) conocía el procedimiento para notificar un incidente, de los cuales, 53% (n = 27) no notificó ninguno en el último año. Ninguna dimensión alcanzó grado de fortaleza. Fueron detectadas como debilidad: percepción de seguridad: 57,7% (IC 95%: 52,7-62,6), dotación de personal: 81,7% (IC 95%: 77,4-85,2) y apoyo de gerencia: 69,9% (IC 95%: 64,3-74,9)...(AU)

Introduction: Critical Care Area (CCA) is one of the most complex in the hospital system, requiring a high number of interventions and handling of amounts of information. Therefore, these areas are likely to experience more incidents that compromise patient safety (PS). Aim: To determine the perception of the healthcare team in a critical care area about the patient safety culture. Method: Cross-sectional descriptive study, September 2021, in a polyvalent CCA with 45 beds, 118 health workers (physicians, nurses, auxiliary nursing care technicians). Sociodemographic variables, knowledge of the person in charge in PS and their general training in PS and incident notification system were collected. The validated Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire, measuring 12 dimensions was used. Positive responses with an average score ≥75%, were defined as an area of strength while ≥50% negative responses were defined as an area of weakness. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis: χ2 and t-Student tests, and ANOVA. Significance p ≤ 0.05. Results: 94 questionnaires were collected (79.7% sample). The PS score was 7.1 (1.2) range 1-10. The rotational staff scored the PS with 6.9 (1.2) compared to 7.8 (0.9) for non-rotational staff (p = 0.04). A 54.3% (n = 51) was familiar with the incident reporting procedure, 53% (n = 27) of which had not reported any in the last year. No dimension was defined as strength.There were three dimensions that behaved like a weakness: security perception: 57.7% (95% CI: 52.7-62.6), staffing: 81.7% (95% CI: 77.4-85.2) and management support: 69 .9% (95% CI: 64.3-74.9)...(AU)

Perception of the safety culture in a critical area.

INTRODUCTION: Critical care Area (CCA) is one of the most complex in the hospital system, requiring a high number of interventions and handling of amounts of information. Therefore, these areas are likely to experience more incidents that compromise patient safety (PS). AIM: To determine the perception of the healthcare team in a critical care area about the patient safety culture. METHOD: Cross-sectional descriptive study, September 2021, in a polyvalent CCA with 45 beds, 118 health workers (physicians, nurses, auxiliary nursing care technicians). Sociodemographic variables, knowledge of the person in charge in PS and their general training in PS and incident notification system were collected. The validated Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire, measuring 12 dimensions was used. Positive responses with an average score ≥75%, were defined as an area of strength while ≥50% negative responses were defined as an area of weakness. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis: X2 and t-Student tests, and ANOVA. Significance p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: 94 questionnaires were collected (79.7% sample). The PS score was 7.1 (1.2) range 1-10. The rotational staff scored the PS with 6.9 (1.2) compared to 7.8 (0.9) for non-rotational staff (p = 0.04). A 54.3% (n = 51) was familiar with the incident reporting procedure, 53% (n = 27) of which had not reported any in the last year. No dimension was defined as strength. There were three dimensions that behaved like a weakness: security perception: 57.7% (95% CI: 52.7-62.6), staffing: 81.7% (95% CI: 77.4-85.2) and management support: 69 .9% (95% CI: 64.3-74.9). CONCLUSIONS: The assessment of PS in the CCA is moderately high, although the rotational staff has a lower appreciation. Half of the staff do not know the procedure for reporting an incident. The notification rate is low. The weaknesses detected are perception of security, staffing and management support. The analysis of the patient safety culture can be useful to implement improvement measures.

Nurse information in Spanish intensive care units: Formal or informal role? Multicentre study.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the brochure provided to relatives on admission to Spanish Intensive Care Units (ICU) regarding nursing information. METHODOLOGY: Descriptive, cross-sectional, multicentre study from September-December 2019. A total of 280 adult ICUs were included, according to the list of the Spanish Society of Intensive Care. The brochure was requested through personal contact, phone call, twitter, or hospital website. ANALYSED VARIABLES: Hospital (public/private), university (yes/no), visiting (open/closed), medical and nurse information. Descriptive statistics and X2 test (relations nurse information and other variables). RESULTS: Data were collected from 228 ICU (81.4%), of which 25 (11%) did not have a brochure. A total of 77.8% were public and 49.8% university hospitals. Of the hospitals, 94.1% had closed visiting hours, although 42.4% supplemented it with flexible. All the hospitals included daily medical information with an established timetable, 21.7% (n = 44) contained nurse information, 27.3% with established hours and 38.6% during visits. Of the nursing information, 79.5% referred to care, 29.5% to needs, 13.6% to well-being, 15.9% to the patient's condition, 11.4% to the environment, 9.1% to observations, and 29.5% to clarifications. A total of 17.2% of all ICU offered to collaborate in care. Of the brochures with nurse information, 90.9% were public hospitals and 9.1% were private (p = .02). Of the hospitals, 65.9% were university compared to 34.1% who were not (p = .02). CONCLUSIONS: While medical information is consistently reflected in all brochures, only a few contain nursing information with generic and non-homogeneous and specific content. These results contrast with the reality of the ICU, where the nurse is the professional with the greatest contact with the family. The official provision of nursing information occurs more frequently in public and university hospitals. It is necessary to standardise this information, since as a responsible part of the care process, nurses must communicate their care in a formal manner, and thus help make their work visible.

Información enfermera en las unidades de cuidados intensivos españolas: ¿rol formal o informal? Estudio multicéntrico / Nurse information in Spanish intensive care units: Formal or informal role? Multicentre study

Objetivos: Evaluar la guía de acogida proporcionada a los familiares en las unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI) españolas respecto a la información enfermera. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo, transversal multicéntrico de septiembre-diciembre de 2019. Se incluyeron 280 UCI de adultos, según el listado de la Sociedad Española de Cuidados Intensivos. El folleto se solicitó mediante contacto personal, llamada telefónica, Twitter o web del hospital. Variables analizadas: Hospital (público/concertado o privado), universitario (sí/no), visita (abierta/cerrada), información médica y enfermera. Estadística descriptiva y prueba Chi cuadrado (relación información enfermera y resto de variables). Resultados: Se recogieron datos de 228 UCI (81,4%), de las cuales 25 (11%) no disponían de folleto. Un 77,8% eran públicas/concertadas y el 49,8% universitarias. El 94,1% tenían horario cerrado, aunque el 42,4% lo complementaban con uno flexible o de acompañamiento. El 100% incluía información médica diaria con horario establecido. El 21,7% (n=44) contenía información enfermera, un 27,3% con horario establecido y un 38,6% durante las visitas. En el 79,5% la información enfermera hacía referencia a cuidados, en el 29,5% a necesidades, en el 13,6% al bienestar, en el 15,9% al estado del paciente, en el 11,4% al entorno, en el 9,1% a observaciones y en el 29,5% a aclaraciones. El 17,2% de todas las UCI ofrecía colaborar en los cuidados. De los folletos con información enfermera el 90,9% eran hospitales públicos/concertados y el 9,1% privados (p=0,02). El 65,9% eran universitarios frente al 34,1% que no lo eran (p=0,02). Conclusiones: Mientras que la información médica queda reflejada de forma unánime, una baja proporción de folletos citan la información enfermera, con un contenido poco homogéneo y concreto. Estos resultados contrastan con la realidad de la UCI, donde la enfermera es el profesional con mayor contacto con la familia.(AU)

Objectives: To evaluate the brochure provided to relatives on admission to Spanish Intensive Care Units (ICU) regarding nursing information. Methodology: Descriptive, cross-sectional, multicentre study from September-December 2019. A total of 280 adult ICUs were included, according to the list of the Spanish Society of Intensive Care. The brochure was requested through personal contact, phone call, twitter, or hospital website. Analyzed variables: Hospital (public/private), university (yes/no), visiting (open/closed), medical and nurse information. Descriptive statistics and X2 test (relations nurse information and other variables). Results: Data were collected from 228 ICU(81.4%), of which 25(11%) did not have a brochure. A total of 77.8% were public and 49.8% university hospitals. Of the hospitals, 94.1% had closed visiting hours, although 42.4% supplemented it with flexible. All the hospitals included daily medical information with an established timetable, 21.7%(n=44) contained nurse information, 27.3% with established hours and 38.6% during visits. Of the nursing information, 79.5% referred to care, 29.5% to needs, 13.6% to well-being, 15.9% to the patient's condition, 11.4% to the environment, 9.1% to observations, and 29.5% to clarifications. A total of 17.2% of all ICU offered to collaborate in care. Of the brochures with nurse information, 90.9% were public hospitals and 9.1% were private (P=.02). Of the hospitals, 65.9% were university compared to 34.1% who were not (P=.02). Conclusions: While medical information is consistently reflected in all brochures, only a few contain nursing information with generic and non-homogeneous and specific content. These results contrast with the reality of the ICU, where the nurse is the professional with the greatest contact with the family.(AU)

Visita de los menores de edad en una unidad de cuidados intensivos. ¿Qué opina el personal sanitario? / Visit of minors in an intensive care unit. What is the opinion of health staff?

OBJETIVO: Determinar las opiniones del equipo asistencial (EA) ante la visita de menores en una unidad de cuidados intensivos de adultos. MÉTODO: Estudio descriptivo transversal en una unidad de cuidados intensivos de adultos con un EA de 62 personas, entre septiembre-diciembre 2017. Se utilizó el cuestionario de Knutsson con 10 preguntas cerradas con espacio para comentarios y 2 abiertas. Selección de los encuestados mediante muestreo de conveniencia. Estadística descriptiva con frecuencias absolutas y porcentajes. Prueba de Chi2 o Fisher. Significación p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Se recogieron 61 cuestionarios: 70,5% correspondían a personal de enfermería (PE). El 50% de profesionales médicos (PM) restringiría la entrada de menores de 0-6 años frente al 76,2% de PE (p = 0,04). Entre 7-12 años, el 16,7% de PM la limitaría frente al 46,5% del PE (p = 0,02). El 75% del EA opinó que la entrada podía significar riesgo de infección para el menor. El 60% creyó que el entorno podía intimidarlo y el 66,7% que podía impresionarlo el estado del paciente. Permitirían la entrada de menores de 0-6 años, si el paciente se estuviera muriendo (70,6% PM y 41% PE) p = 0,04), despierto (77,8% PM y 57,5% PE) o parentesco cercano (padre/madre) (66,7% PM y 60% PE). CONCLUSIONES: El EA es partidario de la visita con una edad > 6 años. En circunstancias especiales: parentesco cercano, paciente despierto o muerte son más permisivos independientemente de la edad. Los motivos de restricción son: entorno, estado y riesgo de infección. El PE es más restrictivo ante la visita

AIM: To determine the opinion of healthcare staff (HS) on the presence of minors in an adult intensive care unit. METHOD: Transversal descriptive research study in an adult intensive care unit with 62 people, between September/December 2017. The Knutsson questionnaire was used with 10 closed questions with space for comments, and 2 open questions. Selection of the respondents was by means of convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics with absolute frequencies and percentages. Chi-squared-test or Fisher. Significance p < .05. RESULTS: 61 questionnaires were collected: 70.5% nursing staff (NS). Fifty percent of medical staff (MS) would restrict the entry of 0 to 6-year old minors versus 76.2% NS (p = .04). Of the MS, 16.7% would restrict the visits of minors between the ages of 7 and 12 versus 46.5% NS (p=.02). Seventy-five percent of HS thought that minors' access could entail a risk of infection for the children. Of the survey respondents, 60% believed that the environment could intimidate the minor, and 66.7% thought that the patient's condition could affect the child. They would permit 0-6-year-old minors to access the ICU if the patient was dying (70.6% MS/41% NS, p = .04), awake and alert (77.8% MS/57.5% NE) and close relatives (parents) (66.7% MS/60% NS). CONCLUSIONS: HS support minors visiting an adult adult intensive care unit if they are > 6 years old. HS show a more positive attitude towards visits in special circumstances such as close relatives, awake patient, and death regardless of their age. The reasons for restriction of visits are: environment, patient's condition and risk of infection. NS show a less positive attitude in relation to visits

Visit of minors in an intensive care unit. What is the opinion of health staff? / Visita de los menores de edad en una unidad de cuidados intensivos. ¿Qué opina el personal sanitario?

AIM: To determine the opinion of healthcare staff (HS) on the presence of minors in an adult intensive care unit. METHOD: Transversal descriptive research study in an adult intensive care unit with 62 people, between September/December 2017. The Knutsson questionnaire was used with 10 closed questions with space for comments, and 2 open questions. Selection of the respondents was by means of convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics with absolute frequencies and percentages. Chi-squared-test or Fisher. Significance p<.05. RESULTS: 61 questionnaires were collected: 70.5% nursing staff (NS). Fifty percent of medical staff (MS) would restrict the entry of 0 to 6-year old minors versus 76.2% NS (p=.04). Of the MS, 16.7% would restrict the visits of minors between the ages of 7 and 12 versus 46.5% NS (p=.02). Seventy-five percent of HS thought that minors' access could entail a risk of infection for the children. Of the survey respondents, 60% believed that the environment could intimidate the minor, and 66.7% thought that the patient's condition could affect the child. They would permit 0-6-year-old minors to access the ICU if the patient was dying (70.6% MS/41% NS, p=.04), awake and alert (77.8% MS/57.5% NE) and close relatives (parents) (66.7% MS/60% NS). CONCLUSIONS: HS support minors visiting an adult adult intensive care unit if they are>6 years old. HS show a more positive attitude towards visits in special circumstances such as close relatives, awake patient, and death regardless of their age. The reasons for restriction of visits are: environment, patient's condition and risk of infection. NS show a less positive attitude in relation to visits.

Incidencia de lesiones cutáneas asociadas a la humedad en una unidad de cuidados intensivos / Incidence of moisture-associated skin damage in an intensive care unit

Objetivos: Determinar la incidencia de las lesiones cutáneas asociadas a la humedad (LESCAH) en el área del pañal, identificar los factores predisponentes y conocer las medidas preventivas y registros realizados. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo longitudinal (junio de 2014-abril de 2015) en una UCI polivalente. Se incluyeron pacientes con estancia > 48 h y sin lesiones cutáneas. Se valoró diariamente la piel hasta la aparición de LESCAH, alta o un máximo de 14 días. Se registraron datos demográficos, estancia, tipo de LESCAH, incontinencia, consistencia y número de deposiciones, obesidad, escala Braden y prevención. Resultados: Se estudiaron 145 pacientes (66,2% hombres), la mediana de edad fue 69 (P25 = 56,5-P75 = 76) años y la estancia de 5(P25 = 3-P75 = 11,25) días, el 29,9% presentó obesidad. Se detectó un 26,2% de dermatitis asociada a la incontinencia (DAI) y un 15,9% dermatitis intertriginosa (DI). Se registró el 23,8% de las LESCAH. Las variables relacionadas con la DAI fueron la incontinencia fecal, número de deposiciones, heces líquidas y estancia. Para la DI fueron la obesidad y la puntuación en la escala Braden. El análisis multivariable seleccionó la incontinencia fecal (OR = 5,4; IC 95%:1,1-26) y el número de deposiciones (OR = 1,1; IC:1,0-1,2) como variables independientes para desarrollar DAI y la obesidad (OR=2,8; IC95%:1,0-8,2) y escala Braden (OR =0,8; IC95%:0,7-1,0) para desarrollar DI. Se realizó prevención al 23,8% de los obesos y al 42,9% de los incontinentes. Conclusiones: Existe una elevada incidencia en LESCAH. Tener incontinencia fecal y mayor número de deposiciones son factores de riesgo para desarrollar DAI. La obesidad y una puntuación menor en la escala Braden predisponen a sufrir DI. El registro de las LESCAH y la prevención en pacientes de riesgo es insuficiente

Objectives: To determine the incidence of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) in the nappy area, identify predisposing factors and know the preventive measures and nursing records. Method: Descriptive longitudinal study (June 2014-April 2015) in a general ICU. Patients whose stay >48 hours and without skin lesions were included. The skin was assessed daily until the appearance of MASD, discharge or a maximum of 14 days. Demographics, stay, MASD type, incontinence, number and consistency of stools, obesity, Braden scale and prevention were recorded. Results: 145 patients (66.2% male) were studied, median age was 69 (P25 = 56.5, P75 = 76) and median length of stay was five days (P25 = 3, P75 = 11.25), 29.9% were obese. Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) was detected in 26.2% and intertriginous dermatitis (ITD) in 15.9%. MASD was recorded in 23.8%. The variables causing IAD to develop were faecal incontinence, number of stools, liquid stools, and stay. Those for ITD were obesity and score on the Braden scale. Multivariate analysis selected faecal incontinence (OR = 5.4, CI95%: 1.1-26) and the number of stools (OR = 1.1, CI 95%:1.0-1.2) as independent variables for developing IAD and obesity (OR = 2.8, CI 95%:1.0-8.2) and Braden (OR = 0.8, CI 95%:0.7-1.0) for developing ITD. Prevention to 23.8% of obese and 42.9% of incontinent was performed. Conclusions: There is a high incidence in MASD. Faecal incontinence and higher number of stools are the risk factors for developing IAD. Obesity and a lower score on the Braden scale may affect susceptibility to ITD. Recording of MASD and its prevention in patients at risk is insufficient

Incidence of moisture-associated skin damage in an intensive care unit. / Incidencia de lesiones cutáneas asociadas a la humedad en una unidad de cuidados intensivos.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the incidence of moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) in the nappy area, identify predisposing factors and know the preventive measures and nursing records. METHOD: Descriptive longitudinal study (June 2014-April 2015) in a general ICU. Patients whose stay >48hours and without skin lesions were included. The skin was assessed daily until the appearance of MASD, discharge or a maximum of 14 days. Demographics, stay, MASD type, incontinence, number and consistency of stools, obesity, Braden scale and prevention were recorded. RESULTS: 145 patients (66.2% male) were studied, median age was 69 (P25=56.5, P75=76) and median length of stay was five days (P25=3, P75=11.25), 29.9% were obese. Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) was detected in 26.2% and intertriginous dermatitis (ITD) in 15.9%. MASD was recorded in 23.8%. The variables causing IAD to develop were faecal incontinence, number of stools, liquid stools, and stay. Those for ITD were obesity and score on the Braden scale. Multivariate analysis selected faecal incontinence (OR=5.4, CI95%: 1.1-26) and the number of stools (OR=1.1, CI95%:1.0-1.2) as independent variables for developing IAD and obesity (OR=2.8, CI95%:1.0-8.2) and Braden (OR=0.8, CI95%:0.7-1.0) for developing ITD. Prevention to 23.8% of obese and 42.9% of incontinent was performed. CONCLUSIONS: There is a high incidence in MASD. Faecal incontinence and higher number of stools are the risk factors for developing IAD. Obesity and a lower score on the Braden scale may affect susceptibility to ITD. Recording of MASD and its prevention in patients at risk is insufficient.

Variación de la masa muscular y el peso en el paciente crítico / Variation of muscle mass and weight in critical patient

Objetivo: Cuantificar la variación de la masa muscular y el peso en pacientes críticos e identificar los factores asociados. Metodología: Estudio de cohortes. Se recogieron variables demográficas, peso, balance hídrico y kilocalorías diarias, administración de sedantes y relajantes y fisioterapia motora. Se realizaron 3 medidas consecutivas mediante ultrasonidos del bíceps braquial y recto anterior del cuádriceps, al ingreso y cada 5 días hasta el alta. Resultados: Se estudiaron 68 pacientes, la edad mediana fue 73,5 [57-78,5] años y la estancia mediana de 9,5 [5,5-15] días. Los pacientes recibieron una media de 16 (DE = 5,7) kilocalorías diarias por Kg/peso, el 91,2% sedación, el 44,1% relajantes musculares y un 20% fisioterapia. Los pacientes presentaron una pérdida de masa muscular en el bíceps braquial de 4,9 (DE= 3,9) mm, p < 0,001 y de 5,6 (DE=4,8) mm en el recto anterior, p < 0,001. El análisis de regresión seleccionó la estancia y los relajantes musculares como variables que influían en la pérdida de masa muscular en el bíceps braquial (R2 = 0,4) y solo la estancia en el recto anterior (R2 = 0,3). Los pacientes pesaban al ingreso una media de 81,1 (DE=15) Kg y al alta 81,2 (DE=14,2) Kg, p = 0,95. Conclusiones: El paciente crítico presenta una pérdida de masa muscular significativa relacionada con la estancia y el tratamiento con relajantes musculares. Al alta los enfermos tienen un peso similar al del ingreso, pero una importante disminución de su musculatura

Objectives: Quantify the muscle mass and body weight variation in critically ill patients and to identify associated factors. Method: A descriptive follow-up study. Data for demographic variables, body weight, fluid balance, daily kilocalories, the amount of sedation and muscle relaxants received and motor physiotherapy applied were collected. Three consecutive measurements were performed in the brachial biceps and quadriceps rectus by using ultrasound, upon admission and every 5 days until discharge. Results: 68 patients were included. Average age was of 73.5 [57-78,5] years. The median length of stay was 9.5 [5.5 -15] days. The median 16 (SD = 5.7) daily kilocalories per kg/weight, 91.2% received sedation, 44.1% received muscle relaxants and 20% received physiotherapy. The patients presented a muscle wasting of 4.9 (SD = 3.9) mm, p <.001 in the brachial biceps and 5.6 (SD = 4.8) mm, p <.001 in the quadriceps rectus. Regression analysis selected the length of stay and the muscle relaxants are the most influential variables in the brachial biceps muscle wasting (R2 = 0.4), and length of stay as the most influential in the quadriceps rectus muscle wasting (R2 = 0.3). Patient's mean body weight on admission was of 81.1 (SD = 15) kg and 81.2 (SD = 14.2) kg on discharge, p = .95. Conclusions: The critically ill patient presents a significant muscle waste related with the length of stay and the treatment received with muscle relaxants. Patients are being discharged with a similar body weight to which they were admitted but with a significant reduction of muscle mass

[Variation of muscle mass and weight in critical patient]. / Variación de la masa muscular y el peso en el paciente crítico.

OBJECTIVES: Quantify the muscle mass and body weight variation in critically ill patients and to identify associated factors. METHOD: A descriptive follow-up study. Data for demographic variables, body weight, fluid balance, daily kilocalories, the amount of sedation and muscle relaxants received and motor physiotherapy applied were collected. Three consecutive measurements were performed in the brachial biceps and quadriceps rectus by using ultrasound, upon admission and every 5 days until discharge. RESULTS: 68 patients were included. Average age was of 73.5 [57-78,5] years. The median length of stay was 9.5 [5.5 -15] days. The median 16 (SD=5.7) daily kilocalories per kg/weight, 91.2% received sedation, 44.1% received muscle relaxants and 20% received physiotherapy. The patients presented a muscle wasting of 4.9 (SD=3.9)mm, p <.001 in the brachial biceps and 5.6 (SD=4.8)mm, p <.001 in the quadriceps rectus. Regression analysis selected the length of stay and the muscle relaxants are the most influential variables in the brachial biceps muscle wasting (R2=0.4), and length of stay as the most influential in the quadriceps rectus muscle wasting (R2=0.3). Patient's mean body weight on admission was of 81.1 (SD=15)kg and 81.2 (SD=14.2)kg on discharge, p=.95. CONCLUSIONS: The critically ill patient presents a significant muscle waste related with the length of stay and the treatment received with muscle relaxants. Patients are being discharged with a similar body weight to which they were admitted but with a significant reduction of muscle mass.

Análisis de la carga de trabajo y uso de los recursos enfermeros en una unidad de cuidados intensivos / Analysis of the workload and the use of the nursing resources in an intensive care unit

Objetivo: Evaluar y valorar mediante 3 escalas las cargas de trabajo enfermero (TE) y determinar la relación enfermera/paciente teórica y real de una UCI polivalente. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo transversal de julio del 2012 a junio del 2013, en pacientes mayores de 18 años, donde en días aleatorizados 3 enfermeras cuantificaron el TE mediante el Nursing Activities Score (NAS), el Nine Equivalents Manpower Score (NEMS) y la Valoración de Cargas de Trabajo y Tiempos de Enfermería (VACTE). Se calcularon parámetros de eficiencia del uso de los recursos enfermeros: «work utilization ratio» (WUR), «level of care» operative (LOCop) y planned (LOCp). Datos demográficos, estancia y número de enfermeras. Resultados: Se recogieron 720 registros. La media de edad fue 64 (13,6) años, el 73% eran hombres y la mediana de estancia de 3 (1-12) días. El 60% ingresaron por patología médica. La media total en puntos fue: NAS696,8 (111,6), NEMS: 311,8 (55,3) y VACTE: 4.978 (897,7). El número de enfermeras requerido según NAS fue de 7, según NEMS y VACTE de 6,7. La media real fue de 5,5. En las 3 escalas el WUR fue > 1 y el LOCop de 1,6 pacientes/enfermera. El LOCp fue de 2 pacientes/enfermera. Conclusiones: Evaluar las cargas de TE posibilita conocer la realidad de cada unidad. Según las escalas y los parámetros de eficiencia del uso de los recursos enfermeros utilizados, existe un déficit de enfermeras con relación al trabajo generado. NAS refleja más parámetros del TE

Objective: To evaluate and assess the nursing workload (NW) scales by means of three scales and to determine the theoretical and real nurse/patient relationship in a polyvalent ICU. Methodology: Cross-sectional descriptive study between July 2012 and June 2013 in patients over 18 years old, for which 3 nurses quantified, in randomized days, the NW by the Nursing Activities Score (NAS), Nine Equivalents Manpower Score (NEMS) and Valoración de Cargas de Trabajo y Tiempos de Enfermería (VACTE). Efficiency parameters of nursing resources were calculated: “work utilization ratio” (WUR), “level of care” operative (LOCop) and planned (LOCp). Data on demographics, length of stay and number of nurses were collected.Results720 records were collected. The mean age was 64 (13.6) years. 73% were male and the median of length of stay was 3 (1- 12) days. 60% were admitted for medical causes. The average total score was NAS: 696.8 (111.6), NEMS: 311.8 (55.3) and VACTE: 4,978 (897.7). The required number of nurses according to NAS was 7 and 6,7 according to NEMS and VACTE. The actual average was 5.5. On all 3 scales the WUR was > 1 and LOCop was 1.6 pacients/nurse. The LOCp was 2 patients/nurse. Conclusion: Assessing NW allows to know the reality of each unit. According to the scales and efficiency parameters of the nursing resources used, there is a shortage of nurses in relation to the work generated. NAS reflects more parameters of NW

[Analysis of the workload and the use of the nursing resources in an intensive care unit]. / Análisis de la carga de trabajo y uso de los recursos enfermeros en una unidad de cuidados intensivos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and assess the nursing workload (NW) scales by means of three scales and to determine the theoretical and real nurse/patient relationship in a polyvalent ICU. METHODOLOGY: Cross-sectional descriptive study between July 2012 and June 2013 in patients over 18 years old, for which 3 nurses quantified, in randomized days, the NW by the Nursing Activities Score (NAS), Nine Equivalents Manpower Score (NEMS) and Valoración de Cargas de Trabajo y Tiempos de Enfermería (VACTE). Efficiency parameters of nursing resources were calculated: "work utilization ratio" (WUR), "level of care" operative (LOCop) and planned (LOCp). Data on demographics, length of stay and number of nurses were collected. RESULTS: 720 records were collected. The mean age was 64 (13.6) years. 73% were male and the median of length of stay was 3 (1-12) days. 60% were admitted for medical causes. The average total score was: NAS: 696.8 (111.6), NEMS: 311.8 (55.3) and VACTE: 4,978 (897.7). The required number of nurses according to NAS was 7 and 6,7 according to NEMS and VACTE. The actual average was 5.5. On all 3 scales the WUR was >1 and LOCop was 1.6 pacients/nurse. The LOCp was 2 patients/nurse. CONCLUSION: Assessing NW allows to know the reality of each unit. According to the scales and efficiency parameters of the nursing resources used, there is a shortage of nurses in relation to the work generated. NAS reflects more parameters of NW.

[Analysis of compliance of 2 prevention measures for ventilator-associated pneumonia (raised head of bed and cuff pressure control)]. / Análisis del cumplimiento de 2 medidas para prevenir la neumonía asociada a la ventilación mecánica (elevación de la cabecera y control del neumotaponamiento).

OBJECTIVES: To quantify the hours of mechanical ventilation in patients with head of bed elevation≥30°. Determining compliance of cuff measurement every 6h. METHOD: Descriptive longitudinal study. Measured: time head of bed elevation≥30°, <30° and reasons for non compliance, as well as cuff control every 6h. RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-two records of head of bed elevation and 584 of cuff pressure. Daily average head<30° for care or procedures: 2h (1h19'). The theoretical average number of hours that patients should remain at≥30° was 21h15' (3h) and actual 14h (5h) (P<.001). Registration of cuff was 76,7%. Cuffs between 20-30cmH2O were 75.9%. The 20% of cuff pressure were measured every 6h<20cmH2O and 33.7% when the interval was higher (P=.04). CONCLUSIONS: A third of the day patients are<30° without justification. Cuff pressure registration and percentage of therapeutic range are high. Control every 6h decreases the cuff with pressure<20cmH2O.

Análisis del cumplimiento de 2 medidas para prevenir la neumonía asociada a la ventilación mecánica (elevación de la cabecera y control del neumotaponamiento) / Analysis of compliance of 2 prevention measures for ventilator-associated pneumonia (raised head of bed and cuff pressure control)

Objetivos: Cuantificar las horas de la cabecera mayor o igual 30 gradosde pacientes con ventilación mecánica. Determinar el cumplimiento de medición del neumotaponamiento cada 6 h. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo longitudinal. Se midió el tiempo de la cabecera ≥ 30°, < 30° y los motivos de no cumplimiento, así como el registro de las presiones del neumotaponamiento cada 6 h. Resultados: Se realizaron 172 registros de la cabecera y 584 de neumotaponamiento. Media diaria de la cabecera < 30° por procedimientos o cuidados: 2 h (1h19’). La media de horas teóricas que los pacientes debían permanecer a ≥30° fue de 21h15’ (3h), y las reales, de 14h (5h) (p<0,001). El registro del neumotaponamiento fue del 76,7%. El 75,9% estaba entre 20-30 cm H2O. El 20% de los neumotaponamientos medidos cada 6h estaban < 20 cm H2O, siendo del 33,7% cuando el intervalo fue superior (p=0,04). Conclusiones: Una tercera parte del día los pacientes permanecen < 30° sin justificación. El registro del neumotaponamiento y el porcentaje de normopresionados son elevados. El control cada 6h disminuye la infrapresión

Objectives To quantify the hours of mechanical ventilation in patients with head of bed elevation more or similar 30º. Determining compliance of cuff measurement every 6 h. Method Descriptive longitudinal study. Measured: time head of bed elevation ≥ 30°, < 30° and reasons for non compliance, as well as cuff control every 6h. Results: One hundred and seventy-two records of head of bed elevation and 584 of cuff pressure. Daily average head < 30° for care or procedures: 2 h (1h19’). The theoretical average number of hours that patients should remain at ≥ 30° was 21h15' (3h) and actual 14h (5 h) (P<.001). Registration of cuff was 76,7%. Cuffs between 20-30 cm H2O were 75.9%. The 20% of cuff pressure were measured every 6h < 20 cm H2O and 33.7% when the interval was higher (P=.04). Conclusions: A third of the day patients are <30° without justification. Cuff pressure registration and percentage of therapeutic range are high. Control every 6h decreases the cuff with pressure < 20 cm H2O