Prevalence of Children With Complex Chronic Conditions in PICUs of Argentina: A Prospective Multicenter Study.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of children with complex chronic conditions in PICUs in Argentina. To describe the demographic profile, clinical course and outcomes in PICU of children with complex chronic condition in comparison to previously healthy children. DESIGN: Prospective, observational multicenter study. SETTING: Nineteen PICUs located in Argentina belonging to public and private institutions. PATIENTS: All children admitted to the participating PICUs between March 1, 2015, and February 28, 2016. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS: We analyzed 3,483 PICU admissions. The prevalence of complex chronic condition was 48.06% (95% CI, 46.39-49.72). Cardiovascular complex chronic condition was predominant (22.24% [421/1,893]), followed by neuromuscular complex chronic condition (18.75% [355/1,893]) and malignant disease 17.7% (335/1,893). Technologic dependence was present in 22.22% of the patients (372 of 1,674). Predominant admission diagnosis was postoperative (36.6%) and respiratory disease (28.32%). Children with complex chronic condition had higher mortality than previously healthy patients (odds ratio, 2.74; 95% CI, 2.01-3.73). The risk of prolonged stay (≥ 26 d) was also higher (odds ratio, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.10-1.89). Rate utilization of the following devices was higher in patients with complex chronic condition: mechanical ventilation (odds ratio, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.12-1.63), central venous catheter (odds ratio, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.04-1.48), and arterial monitoring (odds ratio, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.09-1.63). CONCLUSIONS: We observed a high prevalence of patients with complex chronic condition in this sample of argentine PICUs. These patients presented higher mortality and resource use than previously healthy children. This information is valuable to understand the impact that patients with complex chronic condition have on PICU performance and enables proper planning of care.

Quality improvement collaborative for improving patient care delivery in Argentine public health sector intensive care units.

BACKGROUND: The demand for healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic was excessive for less-resourced settings, with intensive care units (ICUs) taking the heaviest toll. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to achieve adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) use in 90% of patient encounters, to reach 90% compliance with objectives of patient flow (OPF) and to provide emotional support tools to 90% of healthcare workers (HCWs). METHODS: We conducted a quasi-experimental study with an interrupted time-series design in 14 ICUs in Argentina. We randomly selected adult critically ill patients admitted from July 2020 to July 2021 and active HCWs in the same period. We implemented a quality improvement collaborative (QIC) with a baseline phase (BP) and an intervention phase (IP). The QIC included learning sessions, periods of action and improvement cycles (plan-do-study-act) virtually coached by experts via platform web-based activities. The main study outcomes encompassed the following elements: proper utilisation of PPE, compliance with nine specific OPF using daily goal sheets through direct observations and utilisation of a web-based tool for tracking emotional well-being among HCWs. RESULTS: We collected 7341 observations of PPE use (977 in BP and 6364 in IP) with an improvement in adequate use from 58.4% to 71.9% (RR 1.2, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.29, p<0.001). We observed 7428 patient encounters to evaluate compliance with 9 OPF (879 in BP and 6549 in IP) with an improvement in compliance from 53.9% to 67% (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.32, p<0.001). The results showed that HCWs did not use the support tool for self-mental health evaluation as much as expected. CONCLUSION: A QIC was effective in improving healthcare processes and adequate PPE use, even in the context of a pandemic, indicating the possibility of expanding QIC networks nationwide to improve overall healthcare delivery. The limited reception of emotional support tools requires further analyses.

Impact of the implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol in a pediatric intensive care unit. / Impacto de la implementación de un protocolo de sedoanalgesia en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos.

Introduction. Adequate sedation and analgesia is essential in the management of patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). The implementation of protocols and their monitoring is recommended; mixed results on adherence and impact have been reported. Objectives. To assess the impact of the implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol on the use of benzodiazepines, opioids, and evolution in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in patients requiring MV for more than 72 hours. Methods. Before-and-after, uncontrolled study in the PICU of a children's hospital. The study was developed in 3 stages: pre-intervention for situational diagnosis (from April to September 2019), intervention,and post-intervention for implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol, education on use, and monitoring of adherence and impact (from October 2019 to October 2021). Results. A total of 99 and 92 patients were included in the study in the pre- and post-intervention stages, respectively. Patients had a more severe condition, were younger, and had a lower weight in the preintervention period. After adjusting for severity and age, the group comparison in the post-intervention stage showed a reduction in days of continuous infusion of opioids (6 ± 5.2 versus 7.6­5.8, p = 0.018) and days of continuous infusion of benzodiazepines (3.3 ± 3.5 versus 7.6 ± 6.8, p = 0.001). No significantdifferences were observed in days of MV and total days of benzodiazepine use. Conclusion. The implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol resulted in a reduction in the use of continuous infusion of drugs.

Introducción. La adecuada sedación y analgesia es fundamental en el tratamiento de pacientes que requieren asistencia ventilatoria mecánica (AVM). Se recomienda la utilización de protocolos y su monitoreo; son dispares los resultados reportados sobre adhesión e impacto. Objetivos. Evaluar el impacto de la implementación de un protocolo de sedoanalgesia sobre el uso de benzodiacepinas, opioides y evolución en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos (UCIP), en pacientes que requieren AVM mayor a 72 horas. Métodos. Estudio tipo antes-después, no controlado, en la UCIP de un hospital pediátrico. Se desarrolló en 3 etapas: preintervención de diagnóstico situacional (de abril a septiembre de 2019), intervención y posintervención de implementación del protocolo de sedoanalgesia, educación sobre uso y monitorización de adherencia y su impacto (de octubre de 2019 a octubre de 2021). Resultados. Ingresaron al estudio 99 y 92 pacientes en las etapas pre- y posintervención, respectivamente. Presentaron mayor gravedad, menor edad y peso en el período preintervención. En la comparación de grupos, luego de ajustar por gravedad y edad, en la etapa posintervención se reportó una reducción en los días de uso de opioides en infusión continua (6 ± 5,2 vs. 7,6 ± 5,8; p = 0,018) y los días de uso de benzodiacepinas en infusión continua (3,3 ± 3,5 vs. 7,6 ± 6,8; p = 0,001). No se observaron diferencias significativas en los días de AVM y en los días totales de uso de benzodiacepinas. Conclusión. La implementación de un protocolo de sedoanalgesia permitió reducir el uso de fármacos en infusión continua.

[Implementation of a checklist improves adherence to evidence-based practices in a pediatric intensive therapy unit]. / La implementación de una lista de verificación mejora la adherencia a prácticas basadas en la evidencia en una unidad de terapia intensiva pediátrica.

Introduction: Adherence to evidence-based practices (EBP) allows better management of the health-disease process in critical ill patients, with a close relationship between compliance and the quality achieved. We set out to improve adherence to EBP in patients admitted to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and to improve the quality-of-care indicators. Methods: Controlled before-after study, developed at the PICU of the Pedro de Elizalde Children's General Hospital (PECGH), which involved all patients admitted in the period 12/01/2019 to 08/31/2020. The implementation consisted of a checklist (CL) that included 27 EBP, segmented into 10 improvement areas. Adherence to the CL was considered if it met 80% of EBP. Results: During the study period, 153 patients were admitted to the PECGH PICU. The pre- and post-intervention groups were similar in mechanical ventilatory assistance (MVA) requirements and pre-established mortality. In the last stage, adherence to the CL increased 23% (p <0.001). The MVA usage rate experienced the greatest decrease (18%, p = 0.033). In relation to quality indicators, a decrease in episodes of MVA-associated pneumonia (p = 0.002) and bladder catheter-associated infection (p = 0.001) was evident. There were no differences in mortality or stay in the PICU. Conclusion: The implementation of a CL allowed to increase compliance with the different EBP studied, a lower rate of MVA use, and a reduction in the rate of device-associated infections.

Introducción: La adherencia a prácticas basadas en la evidencia (PBE) permite una mejor gestión del proceso salud-enfermedad en pacientes críticos, existiendo una estrecha relación entre su cumplimiento y la calidad alcanzada. Nos propusimos mejorar la adherencia a PBE en pacientes internados en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátrico (UCIP) y mejorar los indicadores de calidad de la atención. Métodos: Estudio controlado, tipo antes-después de una implementación, desarrollado en la UCIP del Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde (HGNPE), que involucró a todos los pacientes internados en el período 01/12/2019 al 31/08/2020. La implementación consistió en una lista de verificación (LV) que incluía 27 PBE, segmentadas en 10 áreas de mejoras. Se consideró adherencia a la LV si cumplía el 80% de las PBE. Resultados: Durante el período de estudio ingresaron a la UCIP del HGNPE 153 pacientes. Los grupos pre-intervención y post-intervención, fueron similares en requerimientos de asistencia respiratoria mecánica (ARM) y mortalidad preestablecida. En la última etapa, la adherencia a la lista aumento un 23% (p<0,001). La tasa de uso de ARM experimentó el mayor descenso (18%, p=0,033). En relación a los indicadores de calidad, se evidenció una disminución de los episodios de neumonía asociada a ARM (p=0,002) e infección asociada a sonda vesical (p=0,001). No hubo diferencias en la estadía ni en la mortalidad en UCIP. Conclusión: La implementación de una LV permitió aumentar el cumplimiento de las distintas PBE estudiadas, una menor tasa de uso de ARM y reducción en la tasa de infecciones asociadas a dispositivos.

Blood neutrophils from children with COVID-19 exhibit both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers.

BACKGROUND: Perhaps reflecting that children with COVID-19 rarely exhibit severe respiratory symptoms and often remain asymptomatic, little attention has been paid to explore the immune response in pediatric COVID-19. Here, we analyzed the phenotype and function of circulating neutrophils from children with COVID-19. METHODS: An observational study including 182 children with COVID-19, 21 children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C), and 40 healthy children was performed in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Neutrophil phenotype was analyzed by flow cytometry in blood samples. Cytokine production, plasma levels of IgG antibodies directed to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and citrullinated histone H3 were measured by ELISA. Cell-free DNA was quantified by fluorometry. FINDINGS: Compared with healthy controls, neutrophils from children with COVID-19 showed a lower expression of CD11b, CD66b, and L-selectin but a higher expression of the activation markers HLA-DR, CD64 and PECAM-1 and the inhibitory receptors LAIR-1 and PD-L1. No differences in the production of cytokines and NETs were observed. Interestingly, the expression of CD64 in neutrophils and the serum concentration of IgG antibodies directed to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 distinguished asymptomatic from mild and moderate COVID-19. INTERPRETATION: Acute lung injury is a prominent feature of severe COVID-19 in adults. A low expression of adhesion molecules together with a high expression of inhibitory receptors in neutrophils from children with COVID-19 might prevent tissue infiltration by neutrophils preserving lung function. FUNDING: This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology (National Agency for Scientific and Technological Promotion, IP-COVID-19-0277 and PMO BID PICT 2018-2548), and University of Buenos Aires from Argentina (20020170100573BA).

A poor and delayed anti-SARS-CoV2 IgG response is associated to severe COVID-19 in children.

BACKGROUND: Most children and youth develop mild or asymptomatic disease during severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. However, a very small number of patients suffer severe Coronavirus induced disease 2019 (COVID-19). The reasons underlying these different outcomes remain unknown. METHODS: We analyzed three different cohorts: children with acute infection (n=550), convalescent children (n=138), and MIS-C (multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, n=42). IgG and IgM antibodies to the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, serum-neutralizing activity, plasma cytokine levels, and the frequency of circulating Follicular T helper cells (cTfh) and plasmablasts were analyzed by conventional methods. FINDINGS: Fifty-eight percent of the children in the acute phase of infection had no detectable antibodies at the time of sampling while a seronegative status was found in 25% and 12% of convalescent and MIS-C children, respectively. When children in the acute phase of the infection were stratified according disease severity, we found that contrasting with the response of children with asymptomatic, mild and moderate disease, children with severe COVID-19 did not develop any detectable response. A defective antibody response was also observed in the convalescent cohort for children with severe disease at the time of admission. This poor antibody response was associated to both, a low frequency of cTfh and a high plasma concentration of inflammatory cytokines. INTERPRETATION: A weak and delayed kinetic of antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 together with a systemic pro-inflammatory profile characterize pediatric severe COVID-19. Because comorbidities are highly prevalent in children with severe COVID-19, further studies are needed to clarify their contribution in the weak antibody response observed in severe disease. FUNDING: National Agency for Scientific and Technological Promotion from Argentina (IP-COVID-19-0277 and PMO-BID-PICT2018-2548).

Usefulness of an early warning score as an early predictor of clinical deterioration in hospitalized children. / Utilidad de una escala de alerta temprana como predictor precoz de deterioro clínico en niños internados.

INTRODUCTION: The early detection of clinical deterioration in hospitalized patients helps to improve the quality of care. The pediatric early warning score (PEWS) system predicts such deterioration in the first 24 hours of administration. Prior studies support the use of these tools. OBJECTIVE: To assess the usefulness of the Brighton PEWS (B-PEWS) for the prediction of clinical deterioration among hospitalized children at a children's hospital in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires. POPULATION AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study. The medical records of all patients aged 1 month to 18 years admitted to any hospitalization ward between March 1st and August 31st, 2018 were included. Predictive outcome measure: B-PEWS score (≤ 3 and ≥ 4 points). Outcome variable: clinical deterioration in the first 24 hours. Categorical outcome measures were analyzed with the χ² test and screening values were estimated. The relative risk was used as a measure of association. A ROC curve analysis and an optimal cut-point analysis according to the Youden index were done considering the score in a continuous manner. RESULTS: A total of 518 medical records were reviewed. Forty patients had clinical deterioration; the B-PEWS score was ≥ 4 in 37 patients and ≤ 3 in 3 (relative risk: 56.36; 95 % confidence interval: 17.76-178.89; p < 0.01). Sensitivity: 92.5 %; specificity: 88.3 %; positive predictive value: 39.8 %; negative predictive value: 99.3 %; positive likelihood ratio: 7.91; negative likelihood ratio: 0.08. AUC: 0.94 (95 % confidence interval: 0.89-0.98). CONCLUSIONS: The B-PEWS demonstrated to be useful to predict clinical deterioration in hospitalized children.

Introducción. La detección temprana del deterioro clínico en pacientes internados posibilita mejorar la calidad de atención médica. Las escalas Pediatric Early Warning Score (PEWS) predicen este deterioro dentro de las primeras 24 h de aplicadas. Estudios previos avalan estas herramientas. Objetivo. Evaluar la utilidad de la escala B-PEWS (Brighton PEWS) para predecir el deterioro clínico en niños internados, en un hospital pediátrico de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires. Población y métodos. Diseño de corte transversal. Incluyó todas las historias clínicas de pacientes de 1 mes a 18 años hospitalizados en áreas de hospitalización indiferenciada, desde el 1 de marzo al 31 de agosto de 2018. Variable de predicción: valor de B-PEWS (≤ 3 y ≥ 4 puntos). Variable de resultado: deterioro clínico dentro de las 24 horas. Análisis de variables categóricas mediante prueba de chi2 y cálculo de valores de clivaje. Como medida de asociación, se usó riesgo relativo. Se realizó análisis de curva ROC y análisis de punto óptimo mediante índice de Youden, tomando la escala de manera continua. Resultados. Se analizaron 518 historias clínicas. Cuarenta pacientes presentaron deterioro clínico; 37 con B-PEWS ≥ 4, y 3 con B-PEWS ≤ 3 (RR 56,36; IC 95 %: 17,76-178,89; p < 0,01). Sensibilidad: el 92,5 %; especificidad: el 88,3 %; valor predictivo positivo: el 39,8 %; negativo: el 99,3 %; razón de verosimilitud positiva: 7,91; razón de verosimilitud negativa: 0,08. AUC: 0,94 (IC 95 %: 0,89-0,98). Conclusión. La escala B-PEWS demostró ser útil para predecir el deterioro clínico en niños hospitalizados.

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

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.

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.

Impact of a health care quality improvement intervention to prevent pressure ulcers in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. / Impacto de una intervención de mejora de calidad de atención para prevenir las úlceras por presión en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos.

INTRODUCTION: Among children hospitalized in the intensive care unit who have pressure ulcers (PUs), more than 50% are related to the sustained pressure from a device or equipment. PUs are an indirect indicator of the quality of health care. Objective. To assess the impact of a health care quality improvement intervention on the development of PUs at the pediatric intensive care unit. Materials and methods. Uncontrolled, before and after study. Pre-intervention: measurement of PUs; post-intervention: implementation of a bundle of measures (staff training, identification of patients at risk, and pressure relief by using antibedsore mattresses and polymer gel positioners) and the same measurements. RESULTS: A total of 152 patients were included: 74 before the intervention and 78 after the intervention. A significant reduction was observed in the incidence of PUs (preintervention: 50.60%; post-intervention: 23.08%; p= 0.001). A higher risk score was seen in the post-intervention group (pre-intervention: 12.4 ± 1.9; post-intervention: 13.7 ± 2.1; p= 0.001). No differences were observed in the risk score on the day of PU onset and the number of PUs. The risk-stratified analysis maintained the significant difference in the incidence of PUs (PIM2 < 5: 47.37%; 19.23%; p= 0.004; and PIM2 ≥ 5: 55.56%; 30.77%; p= 0.053). CONCLUSION: A lower incidence of PUs was observed after the implementation of the health care quality improvement intervention. No changes were detected in the number of PUs or the severity staging.

Introducción. En los niños internados en las unidades de cuidados intensivos, más del 50% de las úlceras por presión (UPP) se relacionan con la presión sostenida de los equipos y dispositivos. las UPP son un indicador indirecto de la calidad de atención. Objetivo. Evaluar el impacto de la implementación de una intervención de mejora de la calidad de atención sobre el desarrollo de UPP en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Material y métodos. Estudio antes-después, no controlado. Preintervención: medición de UPP; posintervención: se aplicó un paquete de medidas (educación del personal, identificación de los pacientes de riesgo y disminución de la presión mediante el uso de colchones antiescaras y posicionadores de gel de polímero), con iguales mediciones. Resultados. Se incluyeron 152 pacientes, 74 preintervención y 78 posintervención. Se observó una disminución significativa de la incidencia de UPP (pre-: 50,60%; pos-: 23,08%; p = 0,001). Mayor puntaje de riesgo en el grupo posintervención (pre-: 12,4 ± 1,9; pos-: 13,7 ± 2,1; p= 0,001). Sin diferencias en el puntaje de riesgo al día de aparición de la UPP y la cantidad de UPP. El análisis estratificado por riesgo mantuvo la diferencia significativa en la incidencia de UPP (PIM2 < 5: 47,37%; 19,23%; p= 0,004; y PIM2 ≥ 5:55,56%; 30,77%; p= 0,053). Conclusión. Hubo un menor desarrollo de UPP luego de la implementación de una intervención de mejora de la calidad. No se observaron cambios en la cantidad ni en su estadio de mayor gravedad.

Impacto de la implementación de un protocolo de sedoanalgesia en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Impact of the implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol in a pediatric intensive care unit

Introducción. La adecuada sedación y analgesia es fundamental en el tratamiento de pacientes que requieren asistencia ventilatoria mecánica (AVM). Se recomienda la utilización de protocolos y su monitoreo; son dispares los resultados reportados sobre adhesión e impacto. Objetivos. Evaluar el impacto de la implementación de un protocolo de sedoanalgesia sobre el uso de benzodiacepinas, opioides y evolución en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos (UCIP), en pacientes que requieren AVM mayor a 72 horas. Métodos. Estudio tipo antes-después, no controlado, en la UCIP de un hospital pediátrico. Se desarrolló en 3 etapas: preintervención de diagnóstico situacional (de abril a septiembre de 2019), intervención y posintervención de implementación del protocolo de sedoanalgesia, educación sobre uso y monitorización de adherencia y su impacto (de octubre de 2019 a octubre de 2021). Resultados. Ingresaron al estudio 99 y 92 pacientes en las etapas pre- y posintervención, respectivamente. Presentaron mayor gravedad, menor edad y peso en el período preintervención. En la comparación de grupos, luego de ajustar por gravedad y edad, en la etapa posintervención se reportó una reducción en los días de uso de opioides en infusión continua (6 ± 5,2 vs. 7,6 ± 5,8; p = 0,018) y los días de uso de benzodiacepinas en infusión continua (3,3 ± 3,5 vs. 7,6 ± 6,8; p = 0,001). No se observaron diferencias significativas en los días de AVM y en los días totales de uso de benzodiacepinas. Conclusión. La implementación de un protocolo de sedoanalgesia permitió reducir el uso de fármacos en infusión continua.

Introduction. Adequate sedation and analgesia is essential in the management of patients requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). The implementation of protocols and their monitoring is recommended; mixed results on adherence and impact have been reported. Objectives. To assess the impact of the implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol on the use of benzodiazepines, opioids, and evolution in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in patients requiring MV for more than 72 hours. Methods. Before-and-after, uncontrolled study in the PICU of a children's hospital. The study was developed in 3 stages: pre-intervention for situational diagnosis (from April to September 2019), intervention, and post-intervention for implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol, education on use, and monitoring of adherence and impact (from October 2019 to October 2021). Results. A total of 99 and 92 patients were included in the study in the pre- and post-intervention stages, respectively. Patients had a more severe condition, were younger, and had a lower weight in the preintervention period. After adjusting for severity and age, the group comparison in the post-intervention stage showed a reduction in days of continuous infusion of opioids (6 ± 5.2 versus 7.6­5.8, p = 0.018) and days of continuous infusion of benzodiazepines (3.3 ± 3.5 versus 7.6 ± 6.8, p = 0.001). No significant  differences were observed in days of MV and total days of benzodiazepine use. Conclusion. The implementation of a sedation and analgesia protocol resulted in a reduction in the use of continuous infusion of drugs.

Síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico en niños, relacionado con COVID-19: actualización a propósito de la presentación de 2 pacientes críticos / Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children related to COVID-19: An update regarding the presentation of two critically ill patients

El síndrome inflamatorio multisistémico en niños asociado con enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 se define por la presencia de fiebre persistente, inflamación y disfunción orgánica, con evidencia de infección pasada o reciente por coronavirus tipo 2 del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave, y exclusión de otra causa microbiana. Acarrea la superposición con otras enfermedades inflamatorias (enfermedad de Kawasaki y síndrome de shock tóxico) y comparte características con entidades que presentan hipercitocinemia (linfohistiocitosis hemofagocítica y síndrome de activación macrofágica). Se diferencia de estas y de la forma aguda grave de enfermedad por coronavirus 2019 en su presentación clínica y parámetros de laboratorio. Su evolución es potencialmente grave y puede presentar falla cardiovascular; la mortalidad es baja (del 2 %).Se realiza una actualización de este síndrome, y se describe la presentación de 2 casos clínicos con disfunción cardiovascular, que requirieron sostén vasoactivo y asistencia ventilatoria invasiva. El laboratorio sérico evidenció parámetros de inflamación. Ambos recibieron tratamiento con gammaglobulina endovenosa y corticoides sistémicos, con evolución favorable

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children related to COVID-19 is defined as the presence of persistent fever, inflammation, and organ dysfunction, with evidence of past or recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, and excluding other microbial causes. It overlaps with other inflammatory diseases (Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome) and shares some features with hypercytokinemia conditions (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and macrophage activation syndrome). It differs from these and severe acute COVID-19 in its clinical presentation and laboratory parameters. It has a potentially severe course and may occur with cardiovascular failure; mortality is low (2 %).Here we provide an update on this syndrome and describe the presentation of two clinical cases with cardiovascular dysfunction who required vasoactive support and invasive ventilation. Serum lab tests showed inflammation parameters. Both patients were treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and systemic corticosteroids and had a favorable course

Evaluation of an improvement strategy on the incidence of medication prescribing errors in a pediatric intensive care unit.

UNLABELLED: Medical prescribing errors (MPEs) are one of the most common causes of adverse events. Intensive care units are a high-risk setting for their occurrence. OBJECTIVES: To describe the incidence and types of MPEs in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. To assess whether the implementation of an improvement strategy on MPEs affects their incidence in the short- and long-term. POPULATION AND METHODS: Prospective, uncontrolled, before-after study. Universe and sample. All medical prescriptions for patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde from July-December, 2013 and from July-August, 2014. RESULTS: In the pre-intervention period, MPEs rate was 13.9%, the most common being the absence of the time a given medication was modified, followed by missing a dose or medication. The medication most frequently involved in MPEs was the sedation and continuous analgesia group. After the implementation of an improvement program on MPEs, the incidence decreased to 6.3 errors every 100 prescriptions. The MPE type which showed the greatest reduction was the absence of the time of modification. Except for parenteral hydration and electrolyte supplementation, the rest of the analyzed medication groups showed a marked reduction. One year after having reviewed the situation, the MPE rate was 5.8%, and values remained similar to those of the immediate postintervention period. CONCLUSION: Managing an improvement program on MPEs resulted in a decrease in its incidence.

Utilidad de una escala de alerta temprana como predictor precoz de deterioro clínico en niños internados / Usefulness of an early warning score as an early predictor of clinical deterioration in hospitalized children

Introducción. La detección temprana del deterioro clínico en pacientes internados posibilita mejorar la calidad de atención médica. Las escalas Pediatric Early Warning Score (PEWS) predicen este deterioro dentro de las primeras 24 h de aplicadas. Estudios previos avalan estas herramientas.Objetivo. Evaluar la utilidad de la escala B-PEWS(Brighton PEWS) para predecir el deterioro clínico en niños internados, en un hospital pediátrico de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires.Población y métodos. Diseño de corte transversal. Incluyó todas las historias clínicas de pacientes de 1 mes a 18 años hospitalizados en áreas de hospitalización indiferenciada, desde el 1 de marzo al 31 de agosto de 2018. Variable de predicción: valor de B-PEWS (≤ 3 y ≥ 4 puntos). Variable de resultado: deterioro clínico dentro de las 24 horas. Análisis de variables categóricas mediante prueba de chi2 y cálculo de valores de clivaje. Como medida de asociación, se usó riesgo relativo. Se realizó análisis de curva ROCy análisis de punto óptimo mediante índice de Youden, tomando la escala de manera continua.Resultados. Se analizaron 518 historias clínicas. Cuarenta pacientes presentaron deterioro clínico; 37 con B-PEWS ≥ 4, y 3 con B-PEWS ≤ 3 (RR 56,36; IC 95 %: 17,76-178,89; p < 0,01). Sensibilidad: el 92,5 %; especificidad: el 88,3 %; valor predictivo positivo: el 39,8 %; negativo: el 99,3 %; razón de verosimilitud positiva: 7,91; razón de verosimilitud negativa: 0,08. AUC: 0,94 (IC 95 %: 0,89-0,98).Conclusión. La escala B-PEWS demostró ser útil para predecir el deterioro clínico en niños hospitalizados

Introduction. The early detection of clinical deterioration in hospitalized patients helps to improve the quality of care. The pediatric early warning score (PEWS) system predicts such deterioration in the first 24 hours of administration. Prior studies support the use of these tools.Objective. To assess the usefulness of the Brighton PEWS (B-PEWS) for the prediction of clinical deterioration among hospitalized children at a children's hospital in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires.Population and methods. Cross-sectional study. The medical records of all patients aged 1 month to 18 years admitted to any hospitalization ward between March 1st and August 31st, 2018 were included. Predictive outcome measure: B-PEWS score (≤ 3 and ≥ 4 points). Outcome variable: clinical deterioration in the first 24 hours. Categorical outcome measures were analyzed with the χ² test and screening values were estimated. The relative risk was used as a measure of association. A ROC curve analysis and an optimal cut-point analysis according to the Youden index were done considering the score in a continuous manner.Results. A total of 518 medical records were reviewed. Forty patients had clinical deterioration; the B-PEWS score was ≥ 4 in 37 patients and ≤ 3 in 3 (relative risk: 56.36; 95 % confidence interval: 17.76-178.89; p < 0.01). Sensitivity: 92.5 %; specificity: 88.3 %; positive predictive value: 39.8 %; negative predictive value: 99.3 %; positive likelihood ratio: 7.91; negative likelihood ratio: 0.08. AUC:0.94 (95 % confidence interval: 0.89-0.98).Conclusion. The B-PEWS demonstrated to be useful to predict clinical deterioration in hospitalized children.

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.

Impacto de una intervención de mejora de calidad de atención para prevenir las úlceras por presión en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos / Impact of a health care quality improvement intervention to prevent pressure ulcers in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Introducción. En los niños internados en las unidades de cuidados intensivos, más del 50% de las úlceras por presión (UPP) se relacionan con la presión sostenida de los equipos y dispositivos. las UPP son un indicador indirecto de la calidad de atención. Objetivo. Evaluar el impacto de la implementación de una intervención de mejora de la calidad de atención sobre el desarrollo de UPP en una Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Material y métodos. Estudio antes-después, no controlado. Preintervención: medición de UPP; posintervención: se aplicó un paquete de medidas (educación del personal, identificación de los pacientes de riesgo y disminución de la presión mediante el uso de colchones antiescaras y posicionadores de gel de polímero), con iguales mediciones. Resultados. Se incluyeron 152 pacientes, 74 preintervención y 78 posintervención. Se observó una disminución significativa de la incidencia de UPP (pre-: 50,60%; pos-: 23,08%; p = 0,001). Mayor puntaje de riesgo en el grupo posintervención (pre-: 12,4 ± 1,9; pos-: 13,7 ± 2,1; p= 0,001). Sin diferencias en el puntaje de riesgo al día de aparición de la UPP y la cantidad de UPP. El análisis estratificado por riesgo mantuvo la diferencia significativa en la incidencia de UPP (PIM2 < 5: 47,37%; 19,23%; p= 0,004; y PIM2 > 5:55,56%; 30,77%; p= 0,053). Conclusión. Hubo un menor desarrollo de UPP luego de la implementación de una intervención de mejora de la calidad. No se observaron cambios en la cantidad ni en su estadio de mayor gravedad.

Introduction. Among children hospitalized in the intensive care unit who have pressure ulcers (PUs), more than 50% are related to the sustained pressure from a device or equipment. PUs are an indirect indicator of the quality of health care. Objective. To assess the impact of a health care quality improvement intervention on the development of PUs at the pediatric intensive care unit. Materials and methods. Uncontrolled, before and after study. Pre-intervention: measurement of PUs; post-intervention: implementation of a bundle of measures (staff training, identification of patients at risk, and pressure relief by using antibedsore mattresses and polymer gel positioners) and the same measurements. Results. A total of 152 patients were included: 74 before the intervention and 78 after the intervention. A significant reduction was observed in the incidence of PUs (preintervention: 50.60%; post-intervention: 23.08%; p= 0.001). A higher risk score was seen in the post-intervention group (pre-intervention: 12.4 ± 1.9; post-intervention: 13.7 ± 2.1; p= 0.001). No differences were observed in the risk score on the day of PU onset and the number of PUs. The risk-stratified analysis maintained the significant difference in the incidence of PUs (PIM2 < 5: 47.37%; 19.23%; p= 0.004; and PIM2 > 5: 55.56%; 30.77%; p= 0.053). Conclusion. A lower incidence of PUs was observed after the implementation of the health care quality improvement intervention. No changes were detected in the number of PUs or the severity staging.

Impact of a quality improvement intervention on the incidence of unplanned extubations in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

INTRODUCTION: An unplanned extubation (UEX) is a frequent and preventable adverse event of mechanical ventilation. OBJECTIVES: To fnd out the causes of unplanned extubation and assess the use of a quality improvement intervention to reduce this event rate. POPULATION: Patients with invasive mechanical ventilation for more than 12 hours over the period from May 1st 2010 and April 30th 2011 in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). DESIGN: Uncontrolled, before and after study. A quality improvement intervention was used over the period between November 2010 and April 2011, which included training PICU staff, establishing standards to fx the endotracheal tube and control its fxation. RESULTS: There were 395 patients admitted to the PICU, 262 (66%) were on mechanical ventilation for more than 12 hours. A total of 27 patients had 30 UEX events: 22 during the period between May and October 2010, and 8 during the period between November 2010 and April 2011. The most common causes of UEX were incorrect fxation of the endotracheal tube (n= 11) and the use of a procedure of care (n= 11). Patients with UEX required additional days on mechanical ventilation: 7 (3-15.5) versus 5 (2-8) days; p= 0.077 and hospitalization: 9.5 (5-19) versus 7 (4-10) days; p= 0.049. During the implementation of the quality improvement intervention, the mean incidence of UEX decreased from 2.30 (95% CI: 1.12-3.49) to 0.86 (95% CI: 0.27-1.44) per 100 days of mechanical ventilation (p= 0.037). CONCLUSIONS: The most common causes of UEX were the incorrect fxation of the endotracheal tube and the use of a procedure of care. The implementation of a quality improvement intervention reduced the incidence of UEX.

Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluids in critically ill pediatric patients: a randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Hypotonic fluids have been associated with the development of iatrogenic hyponatremia. OBJECTIVES: To assess variations in serum sodium (sNa) following the intravenous administration of isotonic maintenance fluids (0.9% NaCl/5% dextrose) compared to hypotonic maintenance fluids (0.45% NaCl/5% dextrose). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Pediatric patients with an expected length of stay in the intensive care unit of more than 24 hours were enrolled, with normal serum Na, and IV fluids >80% of total maintenance fluids. Serum Na level was measured before administering maintenance fluids and when reducing the administration to <80% of total fluids. RESULTS: The study included 63 patients who were randomly assigned to receive hypotonic (n= 32) or isotonic (n= 31) maintenance fluids. Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. There were no differences in terms of volume of fluid administered (hypotonic group: 865 ± 853 mL; isotonic group: 778 ± 649 mL; p= 0.654) or infusion duration (hypotonic group: 24 ± 10.8 hours; isotonic group: 27.6 ± 12.8 hours; p= 0.231). A difference was found in the serum Na following the administration of maintenance fluids (hypotonic group: 137.8 ± 4.3 mmol/L; isotonic group: 140.0 ± 4.1 mmol/L, p= 0.04). None of these two maintenance fluids increased the risk of hyponatremia (Na 145 mmol/L). CONCLUSIONS: Neither hypotonic nor isotonic maintenance fluids increased the risk of developing iatrogenic hyponatremia with the 24 hour infusion.

Evaluación de una estrategia de mejora sobre la incidencia de errores en la prescripción de medicamentos en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Evaluation of an improvement strategy on the incidence of medication prescribing errors in a pediatric intensive care unit

Los errores en la prescripción médica (EPM) son una de las causas más frecuentes de eventos adversos. Las unidades de cuidados intensivos constituyen un ámbito de alto riesgo para su aparición. Objetivos. Describir la incidencia y los tipos de EPM en nuestra Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Evaluar si la implementación de una estrategia de mejora sobre los EPM modifica su incidencia a inmediato y largo plazo. Población y métodos. Estudio tipo antes y después, no controlado, prospectivo. Universo y muestra. Todas las prescripciones médicas de los pacientes internados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos del Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde, en los períodos julio-diciembre de 2013 y julio-agosto de 2014. Resultados. En la etapa preintervención, la tasa de EPM fue de 13,9%; el EPM más frecuente fue la falta de hora de modificación de un determinado medicamento, seguido por la omisión de dosis o medicamento. La medicación implicada con mayor frecuencia en los EPM fue el grupo de sedoanalgesia continua. Luego de la aplicación de un programa de mejora sobre EPM, la incidencia disminuyó a 6,3 errores por 100 prescripciones. El tipo de EPM en el cual se evidenció mayor reducción fue la falta de hora de modificación. A excepción del ítem plan de hidratación parenteral y electrolitos, todos los demás grupos de drogas analizados presentaron una marcada reducción. La tasa de EPM, luego de transcurrido un año del diagnóstico de situación, fue del 5,8%; mantuvo valores similares a la etapa de posintervención inmediata. Conclusión. La gestión de un programa de mejora sobre los EPM permitió un descenso en su incidencia.(AU)

Medical prescribing errors (MPEs) are one of the most common causes of adverse events. Intensive care units are a high-risk setting for their occurrence. Objectives. To describe the incidence and types of MPEs in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. To assess whether the implementation of an improvement strategy on MPEs affects their incidence in the short- and long-term. Population and Methods. Prospective, uncontrolled, before-after study. Universe and sample. All medical prescriptions for patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde from July-December, 2013 and from July-August, 2014. Results. In the pre-intervention period, MPEs rate was 13.9%, the most common being the absence of the time a given medication was modified, followed by missing a dose or medication. The medication most frequently involved in MPEs was the sedation and continuous analgesia group. After the implementation of an improvement program on MPEs, the incidence decreased to 6.3 errors every 100 prescriptions. The MPE type which showed the greatest reduction was the absence of the time of modification. Except for parenteral hydration and electrolyte supplementation, the rest of the analyzed medication groups showed a marked reduction. One year after having reviewed the situation, the MPE rate was 5.8%, and values remained similar to those of the immediate postintervention period. Conclusion. Managing an improvement program on MPEs resulted in a decrease in its incidence.(AU)

Evaluación de una estrategia de mejora sobre la incidencia de errores en la prescripción de medicamentos en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Evaluation of an improvement strategy on the incidence of medication prescribing errors in a pediatric intensive care unit

Los errores en la prescripción médica (EPM) son una de las causas más frecuentes de eventos adversos. Las unidades de cuidados intensivos constituyen un ámbito de alto riesgo para su aparición. Objetivos. Describir la incidencia y los tipos de EPM en nuestra Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Evaluar si la implementación de una estrategia de mejora sobre los EPM modifica su incidencia a inmediato y largo plazo. Población y métodos. Estudio tipo antes y después, no controlado, prospectivo. Universo y muestra. Todas las prescripciones médicas de los pacientes internados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos del Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde, en los períodos julio-diciembre de 2013 y julio-agosto de 2014. Resultados. En la etapa preintervención, la tasa de EPM fue de 13,9%; el EPM más frecuente fue la falta de hora de modificación de un determinado medicamento, seguido por la omisión de dosis o medicamento. La medicación implicada con mayor frecuencia en los EPM fue el grupo de sedoanalgesia continua. Luego de la aplicación de un programa de mejora sobre EPM, la incidencia disminuyó a 6,3 errores por 100 prescripciones. El tipo de EPM en el cual se evidenció mayor reducción fue la falta de hora de modificación. A excepción del ítem plan de hidratación parenteral y electrolitos, todos los demás grupos de drogas analizados presentaron una marcada reducción. La tasa de EPM, luego de transcurrido un año del diagnóstico de situación, fue del 5,8%; mantuvo valores similares a la etapa de posintervención inmediata. Conclusión. La gestión de un programa de mejora sobre los EPM permitió un descenso en su incidencia.

Medical prescribing errors (MPEs) are one of the most common causes of adverse events. Intensive care units are a high-risk setting for their occurrence. Objectives. To describe the incidence and types of MPEs in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. To assess whether the implementation of an improvement strategy on MPEs affects their incidence in the short- and long-term. Population and Methods. Prospective, uncontrolled, before-after study. Universe and sample. All medical prescriptions for patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde from July-December, 2013 and from July-August, 2014. Results. In the pre-intervention period, MPEs rate was 13.9%, the most common being the absence of the time a given medication was modified, followed by missing a dose or medication. The medication most frequently involved in MPEs was the sedation and continuous analgesia group. After the implementation of an improvement program on MPEs, the incidence decreased to 6.3 errors every 100 prescriptions. The MPE type which showed the greatest reduction was the absence of the time of modification. Except for parenteral hydration and electrolyte supplementation, the rest of the analyzed medication groups showed a marked reduction. One year after having reviewed the situation, the MPE rate was 5.8%, and values remained similar to those of the immediate postintervention period. Conclusion. Managing an improvement program on MPEs resulted in a decrease in its incidence.

Ensayo clínico aleatorizado sobre la administración de una solución de mantenimiento intravenosa hipotónica comparada contra una isotónica en pacientes pediátricos críticos / Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluids in critically ill pediatric patients: a randomized control trial

Introducción. Las soluciones hipotónicas se han vinculado a la producción de hiponatremia iatrogénica. Objetivos. Evaluar las variaciones en el sodio sérico (NaS) tras la administración de una solución de mantenimiento intravenosa isotónica (NaCl al 0,9% en dextrosa al 5%) en comparación con una solución de mantenimiento hipotónica (NaCl al 0,45% en dextrosa al 5%). Material y métodos. Ensayo clínico aleatorizado, doble ciego y controlado. Se enrolaron pacientes pediátricos con una estadía esperada en la unidad de cuidados intensivos mayor de 24 horas, NaS normal y líquidos intravenosos > 80% de los líquidos totales de mantenimiento. La concentración sérica de Na se midió antes de colocar la solución de mantenimiento y al reducir la administración de ésta a < 80% del total del aporte. Resultados. Se incorporaron 63 pacientes, que fueron asignados en forma aleatoria a recibir una solución de mantenimiento hipotónica (n= 32) o isotónica (n= 31). Las características basales fueron similares en ambos grupos. No hubo diferencias con respecto a la cantidad de solución administrada (grupo hipotónico 865 ± 853 ml; grupo isotónico 778 ± 649 ml, p= 0,654) o el tiempo de infusión (grupo hipotónico: 24 ± 10,8 horas; grupo isotónico: 27,6 ± 12,8 horas, p= 0,231). Se encontró una diferencia en el NaS luego de la administración de las soluciones de mantenimiento (grupo hipotónico: 137,8 ± 4,3 mmol/L; grupo isotónico: 140,0 ± 4,1 mmol/L, p=0,04). Ninguna de las dos soluciones de mantenimiento aumentó el riesgo de hiponatremia (Na < 135 mmol/L) o de hipernatremia (Na > 145 mmol/L). Conclusiones. Ambas soluciones de mantenimiento, en 24 horas de infusión, no aumentaron el riesgo de producir hiponatremia iatrogénica.

Introduction: Hypotonic fluids have been associated with the development of iatrogenic hyponatremia. Objectives. To assess variations in serum sodium (sNa) following the intravenous administration of isotonic maintenance fluids (0.9% NaCl/5% dextrose) compared to hypotonic maintenance fluids (0.45% NaCl/5% dextrose). Material and Methods. Randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Pediatric patients with an expected length of stay in the intensive care unit of more than 24 hours were enrolled, with normal serum Na, and IV fluids >80% of total maintenance fluids. Serum Na level was measured before administering maintenance fluids and when reducing the administration to <80% of total fluids. Results. The study included 63 patients who were randomly assigned to receive hypotonic (n= 32) or isotonic (n= 31) maintenance fluids. Baseline characteristics were similar inboth groups. There were no differences in terms of volume of fluid administered (hypotonic group: 865 ± 853 mL; isotonic group: 778 ± 649 mL; p=0.654) or infusion duration (hypotonic group: 24 ± 10.8 hours; isotonic group: 27.6 ± 12.8 hours; p= 0.231). A difference was found in the serum Na following the administration of maintenance fluids (hypotonic group: 137.8 ± 4.3 mmol/L; isotonic group: 140.0 ±4.1 mmol/L, p= 0.04). None of these two maintenance fluids increased the risk of hyponatremia (Na <135 mmol/L) or hypernatremia (Na >145 mmol/L). Conclusions. Neither hypotonic nor isotonic maintenance fluids increased the risk of developing iatrogenic hyponatremia with the 24 hour infusion.