ICU

Management
Protocols

Published by Malaysian Society of Intensive Care

Printed by Malaysian Society of Intensive Care (MSIC)
Unit 1.6, Level 1, Enterprise 3B
Technology Park Malaysia
Jalan Innovasi 1, Bukit Jalil
57000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan
Website: [Link]

In collabration with Ministry of Health Malaysia

Copyright © Malaysian Society of Intensive Care

Pusat Kebangsaan ISBN Malaysia

ISBN

Disclaimer: The content of this book has been produced in good faith to guide medical practitioners.
However practitioners are advised to keep abreast the current evidence-based practices that are
constantly evolving and to take into account the local issues and limitations.
Foreword
There are many aspects in the care and management of the critically ill patient. As
clinicians we need to keep abreast with the most current evidence-based practices
to ensure optimal patient care and safety.

This is an update of the management protocol book written in 2012, to facilitate

clinicians in the management of the critically ill. Each protocol was developed with
careful consideration of current evidence as well as the practical application and
cost containment within our institutions. The algorithms in the protocols are simple
to use and can be easily implemented.

There are great concerns on the rise of multi-drug resistant organisms. We know
that critically ill patients are at high risk of acquiring infections. To address this, a
protocol on prevention and control of multi-drug organisms is included.

This protocol materialised due to the many hours of discussion and exchange of
opinions. I hope the protocol will serve as a guide to ICU management that will
enhance the quality of patient care.

I like to express my gratitude to the writing committee for their effort in publishing
this excellent management protocol book.

Dr Melor bin Mohd Mansor

Head of Anaesthetic and Intensive Care Services
Ministry of Health Malaysia

i
Writing Committee
Dr Shanti Rudra Deva
(Chairperson and Editor)
Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Dr Tai Li Ling
(Co-Chairperson)
Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Dr Azmin Huda Abdul Rahim

Intensivist
Department of Ananesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Sultan Ismail, Johor Bahru, Johor

Dr Foong Kit Weng

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Perak

Dr Ismail Tan Md Ali Tan

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

Dr Khoo Tien Meng

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Queen Elizabeth 1, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Dr Lee See Pheng

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Klang, Selangor

ii
Writing Committee
Dato’ Dr Lim Chew Har
Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Pulau Pinang, Pulau Pinang

Dr Mahazir bin Kassim

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru, Johor

Dr Mohd Ridhwan Mohd Noor

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu

Dr Muhammad Zihni Abdullah

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan, Kuantan, Pahang

Dr Nahla Irtiza Ismail

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Melaka, Melaka

Dr Noor Airini Ibrahim

Senior Lecturer and Intensivist
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor

Dr Wan Daud bin Wan Kadir

Intensivist
Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching, Sarawak

iii
Table of Contents
Contents Page

Foreword i

Writing Committee ii

Admission, Discharge and Triage 1

Vasoactive Agents in Acute Circulatory Failure 6

Severe Hypoxaemic Respiratory Failure 14

Weaning from Mechanical Ventilation 21

Pain, Sedation and Delirium 29

Nutritional Therapy 39

Early Mobilisation 47

Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis 54

Venous Thromboembolism 57

Prevention and Control of Multi-Drug Resistant Organisms 62

Withholding and Withdrawing Life-Sustaining Treatment 67

Invasive Ventilation in Non-Critical Care Areas 74

iv
Admission, Discharge and Triage
Introduction

Appropriate utilisation of ICU bed is essential as intensive care resources are limited
and expensive. Demand for intensive care will continue to exceed supply, hence
clear and rationale decision-making regarding admission and discharge is required.

Principles

1. The decision to admit a patient to an ICU should be based on the concept of

potential benefit.

2. Critically ill patients with a reversible medical condition having a reasonable

prospect of meaningful recovery should be admitted.

3. A combination of criteria should be used to determine ICU admission or

discharge.

4. ICU triaging is necessary to ensure optimal and equitable use of limited intensive
care resources.

Admission policy

1. It is the responsibility of the patient’s attending clinician to request for ICU

admission.

2. It is the responsibility of the ICU specialist to decide on admission based on

his/her clinical judgement guided by the admission criteria.

3. The decision to admit or deny admission shall not be made at the level of a
medical officer.

4. Admission from the Emergency and Trauma Department or from another

hospital shall have a primary unit.

5. Admission from other hospitals shall be discussed with the ICU specialist prior
to transfer.

6. It is the responsibility of the primary team to continue resuscitation of patients

while awaiting ICU admission.

7. Patients in ICU remain under the responsibility and ownership of the primary
unit. Transfer of care to a different unit shall be arranged by the primary unit.

1
8. Family shall be informed of patient’s admission to ICU as soon as possible, with
further updates when required.

ICU admission criteria

To optimise ICU resources and improve outcomes, ICU admissions should be guided
on the basis of a combination of factors:
a. Prioritisation according to the patient’s severity of illness
b. Specific patient needs such as life-supportive therapies
c. Diagnosis
d. Prognosis
e. Potential benefit from interventions
f. Objective parameters at the time of referral
g. Available clinical expertise
h. Bed availability

ICU admission based on priority

In evaluating the appropriateness of ICU admission, the priority should be based

on the needs of the patient and the likelihood of benefitting from admission. This
prioritisation defines those who will benefit most from ICU (Priority 1) to those who
will not benefit at all (Priority 3).

1. Priority 1
a. Critically ill, unstable

b. Require life support for organ failure, intensive monitoring and therapies
that cannot be provided elsewhere. Life support includes invasive ventilation,
continuous renal replacement therapies, invasive haemodynamic monitoring
and interventions

c. Do not have limitations of treatment

d. High likelihood of benefit

2. Priority 2
Priority 2A
a. Acutely ill, relatively stable

b. Patients with organ dysfunction requiring intensive monitoring and/or

therapies, who can be managed in an intermediate care facility (high
dependency unit or post anaesthetic care unit)

c. Admit to ICU, if early management fails to prevent deterioration or there is no

intermediate care facility in the hospital

2
 d. Examples include:
i. post-operative patients who require close monitoring
ii. respiratory insufficiency on intermittent non-invasive ventilation

Priority 2B
a. Critically ill, unstable

b. Require life support for organ failure

c. With significantly lower probability of recovery because of advanced underlying

disease

d. May have specific limitations of care e.g. no cardiopulmonary resuscitation

e. Lower likelihood of potential benefit

f. Examples include:
i. metastatic cancer in septic shock secondary to hospital acquired pneumonia
but with some limitations of therapy e.g. no CPR
ii. decompensated heart failure with deteriorating functional status and
multiple hospital admissions

3. Priority 3
a. Terminally ill or moribund patients with no possibility of recovery

b. Not appropriate for ICU admission

c. May benefit from palliative care rather than intensive care

d. Examples include:
i. severe irreversible brain pathology impairing cognition and consciousness
or in a persistent vegetative state
ii. metastatic cancer unresponsive to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy
iii. end-stage cardiac, respiratory or liver disease with no options for transplant
iv. severe disability with poor quality of life
v. advanced disease of a progressive life-limiting condition
e.g. motor neuron disease with rapid decline in physical status,
severe Parkinson’s disease with reduced independence and needs
assistance for activities of daily living
vi. poor response to current treatment
e.g. bowel leak despite multiple laprotomies,
recurrent soft tissue or musculoskeletal infections despite multiple
surgical intervention,
chronic medical conditions that fail to respond to treatment such as
SLE or HIV
vii. end-stage renal disease with no option or refusal for renal replacement
therapy

3
 viii. those who have explicitly stated their wish not to receive life-support
therapy

Triage

Triage is the process of placing patients at their most appropriate level of care. It is
often needed as the number of potential ICU patients exceeds the availability of ICU
beds. Appropriate triaging allows effective bed utilisation and resource management.
Factors to consider when triaging include:
a. Likelihood of benefit
b. Prognosis
c. Life expectancy due to disease
d. Anticipated quality of life

Discharge policy

1. The decision to discharge a patient shall be made by the ICU specialist.

2. Prior to discharge:
a. The primary team shall be informed of the management plan including any
limitation of treatment.

b. A discharge summary shall be completed.

c. Any limitation of treatment shall be clearly documented including why and

amongst whom these decisions are made.

d. Family shall be informed.

e. It is the responsibility of the primary team to receive and review patients

promptly in the ward.

f. Patients who require a higher level of nursing care may benefit from
admission to a step down unit, if available.

ICU discharge criteria

In order to maximise the efficient use of ICU resources, patients should be assessed
continuously to identify those who may no longer need ICU care. This includes
patient with:
a. Stable physiological status and no longer needing ICU monitoring and
treatment.

b. Stable haemodynamic parameters on low dose inotropic support.

c. Stable respiratory status with oxygen requirement not more than 60%.

4
 d. Neurological stability.

e. Tracheostomy, not requiring frequent suctioning.

f. Chronic mechanical ventilation (e.g. motor neuron disease, cervical spine

injury) and the acute critical problem is resolved.

g. Deteriorating or irreversible physiological status where active interventions are

no longer beneficial. Withdrawal of therapy should be initiated, however,
patient may be discharged to the ward if ICU bed is required.

References

1. Nates JL, et al. ICU admission, discharge, and triage guidelines: a framework to enhance
clinical operations, development of institutional policies, and further research. Crit Care
Med 2016;44(8):1553-1602

2. Guidelines for intensive care unit admission, discharge, and triage. Task force of the
American College of Critical Care Medicine, Society of Critical Care Medicine. Crit Care
Med 1999;27(3):633-638

3. White ST, et al. What every intensivist should know about intensive care unit admission
criteria. Rev Bras Ter Intensiva 2017;29(4):414-417

5
Vasoactive Agents in Acute Circulatory Failure
Introduction

The aim of treatment in acute circulatory failure is to maintain adequate perfusion

pressure for tissue oxygenation. Vasopressors and inotropes are cornerstones in the
management of shock syndromes. It is important to identify the type of shock for the
choice of vasoactive agent is determined by its mechanism of action targeting the
underlying pathophysiology.

Principles

1. Initiate vasopressors promptly in severe hypotension especially in

undifferentiated shock, after excluding obstructive shock.

2. It is appropriate to initiate vasoactive agents while ensuring optimal fluid

resuscitation in severe hypotension.

3. Titrate the dose of vasoactive agent to achieve adequate tissue perfusion.

4. Aim for MAP 60 - 65 mmHg (or > 70 mmHg in chronic hypertension) if there is
evidence of inadequate tissue perfusion.

5. The main route of administration of vasoactive drugs is via a central venous

catheter, however, peripheral administration may be considered in low doses.

6. Invasive blood pressure monitoring is preferred to allow immediate recognition

of change in blood pressure and precise titration of vasoactive agents.

7. Monitor regularly for potential complications e.g. arrhythmias and peripheral

ischaemia.

8. Echocardiography is useful in the diagnosis and management of shock.

9. Consider advanced haemodynamic studies e.g. cardiac output monitoring in

patients with refractory shock.

6
Vasoactive agents in distributive shock

Septic shock

1. Septic shock is predominantly caused by vasodilatation and relative hypovolaemia.

Myocardial depression is often present although cardiac output is elevated.

2. Noradrenaline is the vasoactive agent of choice with its effects of venoconstriction

(increase preload), arterial vasoconstriction, positive inotropy, improved cardiac
output and improved renal perfusion.

3. Consider adding a second vasoactive agent (e.g. vasopressin or adrenaline)

when noradrenaline dose of > 15 - 20 mcg/min does not achieve targets.

4. Consider adding iv hydrocortisone 50 mg q6h following a bolus of 100 mg when

noradrenaline dose reaches 15 - 20 mcg/min.

5. Consider adding iv dobutamine (2 - 5 mcg/kg/min) in presence of myocardial

depression, and if noradrenaline dose is < 15 - 20 mcg/min.

6. Wean vasoactive agents once targeted goals are optimised. Consider weaning
noradrenaline first before vasopressin.

Anaphylactic shock

1. Anaphylactic shock is an acute, multi-system disorder (predominantly heart, lung

and vasculature) resulting from the sudden release of mediators from mast cells,
basophils and macrophages into the circulation.

2. Stop the suspected offending agent.

3. Administer iv adrenaline in boluses of 0.05 - 0.1 mg. If no response, administer

infusion adrenaline at 0.1 mcg/kg/min. Adrenaline is preferred as it reverses
peripheral vasodilatation and reduces oedema.

4. Administer iv crystalloid of 20 ml/kg rapidly. Avoid colloids.

5. May consider H1 anti-histamine, iv chlorpheniramine 10 mg to counter histamine-

mediated vasodilatation and bronchoconstriction. There is no evidence on the
use of H2 anti-histamine.

6. May consider iv hydrocortisone 200 mg stat to shorten the protracted reaction.

7
Management of septic shock

SHOCK *
Hypotension
Signs of ssue hypoperfusion

No Yes
Is hypovolaemia
obvious?

Assess fluid Fluid resuscitaon

responsiveness (need not assess for fluid
responsiveness)

Fluid responsive Fluid non-responsive

Consider fluid bolus 10ml/kg

Avoid fluid bolus
in absence of fluid overload

MAP > 60 - 65 mmHg

with adequate ssue
perfusion
No
Yes Yes
MAP > 60 - 65 mmHg Connue current
Start iv noradrenaline with adequate ssue
up to 15 - 20 mcg/min therapy
perfusion

No

Connue iv hydrocorsone 100 mg

current therapy bolus then 50 mg q6h

Yes No Add iv vasopressin

Noradrenaline **Myocardial
> 15 -20 mcg/min depression 0.03 - 0.04 U/min

Yes No

Add iv Add iv
adrenaline dobutamine

* ±Echocardiography
** Echocardiography or cardiac output monitoring

8
Neurogenic Shock

1. Neurogenic shock secondary to spinal cord injury or disease results in lack of

sympathetic tone of peripheral nerves causing vasogenic and cardiogenic
instability.

2. Fluid resuscitation is required to restore intravascular volume.

3. Noradrenaline is recommended as initial agent for its alpha and beta activity.

4. Add adrenaline if a second vasopressor is needed.

Vasoactive Agents in Cardiogenic Shock

1. Cardiogenic shock is characterised by a syndrome of inadequate tissue

perfusion due to myocardial depression or structural abnormality.

2. Causes of cardiogenic shock:

a. Left ventricular failure is the most common, with 3 pathophysiological states.

Volume Status

Wet Dry

Cold Classic cardiogenic shock Euvolemic cardiogenic shock

• Low cardiac output • Low cardiac output
• High SVR • High SVR
• High LV filling pressure • Normal filling pressure
• Systolic and diastolic • Systolic dysfunction
Peripheral dysfunction
circulation
Warm Vasodilatory cardiogenic shock Vasodilatory shock (not
or mixed shock cardiogenic shock)
• Low cardiac output • High cardiac output
• Low or normal SVR • Low SVR
• High filling pressure • Low filling pressure
SVR: Systemic vascular resistance LV: Left ventricle

b. Right ventricular failure

c. Structural heart disease
d. Arrhythmias

3. Early echocardiography is recommended for diagnostic and monitoring of therapy.

4. Early cardiology consult is recommended if there is an indication for rescue

revascularisation.

5. Perform test for fluid responsiveness and correct hypovolaemia in those who are
fluid responsive.

9
6. The vasoactive agent of choice in cardiogenic shock remains unclear as there is
little evidence to guide the use of one agent over another.

7. The initial vasoactive agent based on the type of cardiogenic shock is shown
below:

Type of cardiogenic Vasoactive/ Haemodynamic rationale

shock management
considerations

Cold and wet (low • Noradrenaline • Noradrenaline is preferred in hypotensive

cardiac output & high or dopamine and presence of arrhythmias
SVR) • Inotrope • Dopamine is preferred in bradycardia
• Consider addition of inotrope when
stabilised and after revascularisation
(MI only)

Cold and dry (low • Noradrenaline • Noradrenaline is preferred in hypotensive

cardiac output or dopamine and presence of arrhythmias
& normal filling • Inotrope • Dopamine is preferred in bradycardia
pressure) • Small fluid • Consider addition of inotropic agent when
boluses stabilised and after revascularisation
(MI only)
• Small fluid bolus may be given if patient is
fluid responsive

Vasodilatory warm • Noradrenaline • This subtype has low SVR

and wet or mixed • Consider haemodynamic-guided therapy
cardiogenic and
vasodilatory

Right ventricular • Fluid boluses • Haemodynamic goals include: optimise

failure in shock • Noradrenaline, preload, reduce PVR (RV afterload)
dopamine, • Dopamine for bradycardia
vasopressin • Vasopressin may raise SVR but has no
• Inotrope effect on PVR
• Inhaled pulmonary vasodilators may be
considered

Normotensive shock • Dobutamine, • Initial inotrope may be appropriate given

(symptomatic) milrinone, or that this subtype has SBP > 90 mm Hg and
levosimendan relatively high SVR
• Dobutamine is preferred in isolated LV
dysfunction
• Levosimendan or milrinone is preferred in
presence of increased PVR and RV
dysfunction, or on beta-blockers as their
action is independent on beta-adrenergic
receptors
PVR: Pulmonary vascular resistance RV: Right ventricle

10
References

1. Rhodes A, et al. Surviving sepsis campaign: International guidelines for management of

sepsis and septic shock: 2016. Crit Care Med 2017;45(3):486-552

2. Singer M, et al. The third international consensus definitions for sepsis and septic shock
(Sepsis-3). JAMA 2016;315(8):801-810

3. Monnet X, et al. Assessment of fluid responsiveness: recent advances. Curr Opin Crit
Care 2018;24(3):190-195

4. Annane D, et al. A global perspective on vasoactive agents in shock. Intensive Care Med
2018:44(6):833-846

5. Diepen SV, et al. Contemporary management of cardiogenic shock: A scientific statement

from the American Heart Association. Circulation 2017;136:e232-e268

11
Appendix 1: Fluid responsiveness

Test for fluid responsiveness is performed to identify patients who may need volume expansion.

1. Fluid responsiveness is defined as ability of the left ventricle to increase stroke volume by
10 - 15% after rapid bolus fluid administration.

2. Cardiac output or its indicators during test for fluid responsiveness should be assessed
accurately.

3. Common indicators of fluid responsiveness are pulse pressure change measured by arterial
blood pressure, LV outflow tract (LVOT) velocity time integral (VTI) on echocardiography,
carotid Doppler flow on transoesophageal echocardiography or cardiac output on pulse
contour analysis.

4. Transthoracic echocardiography measurement of LVOT VTI for the estimation of stroke

volume requires expertise.

5. The different methods to test for fluid responsiveness and their limitations.

Methods Main limitations

Pulse pressure/stroke volume Cannot be used in cases of spontaneous breathing, cardiac

variations arrhythmias, low tidal volume/low lung compliance

Inferior vena cava diameter Cannot be used in cases of spontaneous breathing, low tidal
variation volume/low lung compliance

Passive leg raising (PLR) Requires continuous and real-time cardiac output measurement e.g.
echocardiography, pulse contour analysis, oesophageal Doppler or
changes in end-tidal carbon dioxide

Mini fluid challenge (100 ml) Requires a precise technique for measuring cardiac output e.g.
pulse contour analysis

End-expiratory occlusion test Intubated patients

6. Passive leg raising (PLR) test is the preferred method as it does not involve additional fluid
administration.

Transfer of blood from legs and abdomen

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 a. PLR test consists of measuring haemodynamic effects (stroke volume or cardiac output)
following leg elevation up to 45 degrees.

b. Position patient from semi-recumbent to PLR position by using automatic motion of the
bed.

c. Assess haemodynamic effect of PLR within 30 - 90s after the onset of test.

Appendix 2: Dose and haemodynamic effects of vasoactive agents

Receptor binding
Haemodynamic
Drug Infusion dose
effects
α1 β1 β2 Dopamine

Vasopressor or inotrope

Noradrenaline 0.01 - 1.5 μg/kg/min ++++ ++ + - ↑↑SVR, ↑CO

stimulates V1 receptors in vascular ↑↑SVR, ↔PVR

Vasopressin 0.03 - 0.04 U/min
smooth muscle

Adrenaline 0.01 - 1.5 μg/kg/min ++++ ++++ +++ - ↑↑CO, ↑↑SVR

Dopamine 0.5 - 2 μg/kg/min - + - +++ ↑CO

5 - 10 μg/kg/min + +++ + ++ ↑↑CO, ↑SVR

10 - 20 μg/kg/min +++ ++ - ++ ↑↑SVR, ↑CO

Phenylephrine 0.1 - 10 μg/kg/min +++ - - - ↑↑SVR

Inodilators

Dobutamine 2.5 - 20 μg/kg/min + ++++ ++ - ↑↑CO, ↓SVR, ↓PVR

Milrinone 0.125 - 0.75 μg/kg/min PD-3 inhibitor ↑CO, ↓SVR, ↓PVR

myofilament Ca2+ sensitiser, PD-3 ↑CO, ↓SVR, ↓PVR

Levosimendan 0.05 - 0.2 μg/kg/min
inhibitor

SVR: systemic vascular resistance PVR: pulmonary vascular resistance CO: cardiac output PD: phosphodiasterase

13
Severe Hypoxaemic Respiratory Failure
Introduction

PaO2/FiO2 is one of the most convenient and widely used bedside oxygenation
parameter to quantify severity of hypoxaemic failure. Severe hypoxaemic respiratory
failure is defined by PaO2/FiO2 < 100-150 mmHg. The primary aim of ventilatory
support is to ensure adequate gas exchange while minimising the risk of ventilator-
induced lung injury (VILI).

Principles

1. Currently there is no outcome advantage of using either volume or pressure

controlled ventilation.

2. Protective lung ventilation (PLV) strategies should be instituted as the initial

ventilation strategy to minimise VILI. Target a tidal volume of ≤ 6 ml/kg of ideal
body weight with plateau pressure (Pplat) of ≤ 30 cmH2O and accept a lower PaO2.

3. A lung recruitment manoeuvre should be reserved for patients who show ‘PEEP
responsiveness’.

4. Prolonged prone positioning (> 16 hours) should be considered in early phase.

5. Muscle paralysis with neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA) may be considered

in the early phase of ventilation.

6. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) may be considered as a rescue

therapy. It should be based on clinician expertise on a case to case basis.

7. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) should be avoided in patients with PaO2/FiO2 < 200
as it is associated with a high failure rate.

Ventilatory strategy

1. Adhere to protective lung ventilation strategy

2. Optimise mean alveolar pressure
3. Perform lung recruitment manoeuver if applicable and select optimal PEEP
4. Prone positioning
5. Use neuromuscular blocking agent

14
I. Protective lung ventilation strategy

1. Calculate ideal body weight (IBW)

Male = 50 + 0.91 [height (cm) - 152.4] kg
Female = 45.5 + 0.91 [height (cm) - 152.4] kg

2. Mode: Pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) or volume-controlled ventilation

(VCV)

3. Target tidal volume (Vt) of 6 mls/kg IBW with Pplat ≤ 30 cmH2O.

4. Set initial PEEP level at 10 - 15 cmH2O.

5. In PCV, aim for a driving pressure of not more than 15 cmH2O.

6. In VCV
a. Pplat should be measured every 4 hours if VCV is used in passively ventilated
patients (no spontaneous breathing).

b. if Pplat > 30 cmH2O, decrease Vt by 1 ml/kg till Pplat target achieved or a minimum
4 ml/kg Vt is reached.

7. In patients with high respiratory drive resulting in Vt > 6 mls/kg and patient-
ventilator dyssynchrony, muscle paralysis should be considered to prevent patient
self-inflicted lung injury (P-SILI).

8. Use the lowest FiO2 to achieve adequate oxygenation. Allow permissive

hypoxaemia, accepting PaO2 ≥ 55 mmHg or SpO2 ≥ 88%.

9. Accept permissive hypercapnia with pH > 7.1. The respiratory rate may be
increased to a maximum of 35/min. Contraindications to permissive hypercapnia
include intracranial hypertension, acute coronary artery disease, arrhythmias,
right heart failure and worsening pulmonary hypertension.

II. Mean alveolar pressure

1. Optimise mean alveolar pressure:

a. Increase inspiratory time (Ti).
i. in VCV, decrease inspiratory flow rate or add inspiratory pause
ii. in PCV, Ti is directly set in seconds or adjusted as I:E ratio
iii. may require deep sedation as it has the potential to cause air trapping with
haemodynamic consequences or barotrauma

b. Optimise PEEP and inspiratory pressure

15
III. Lung recruitment manoeuvre and optimal PEEP selection

1. Common non-recruitable pathologies include:

a. Focal lung injury e.g. lung contusion, focal pneumonia
b. Pulmonary ARDS

2. Assess ‘PEEP responsiveness’ to evaluate recruitment potential of the lung.

a. Increase PEEP to 15 cmH2O for 30 minutes. High potential recruiters are
those who demonstrate the following at the end of trial:
i. increase in PaO2/FiO2
ii. decrease in PaCO2
iii. increase in respiratory system compliance (CRS) by measuring dynamic
compliance (Cdyn)

Vt delivered
Cdyn =
Ppeak - PEEP

Cdyn is automatically measured in some ventilators.

3. Do not perform lung recruitment manoeuvre in non-recruiters. PEEP should be

kept 10 - 15 cmH2O in these patients. Consider prone and muscle paralysis.

4. Recruitment manoeuvre in recruiters:

a. Additional sedation, paralysis or both may be required during manoeuvre.
Monitor for hypotension. Transient desaturation may be expected during
manoeuvre.

b. Several types of recruitment manoeuvre has been described:

i. sustained high pressure inflation
• CPAP 30 - 50 cmH2O for 20 - 40s with zero pressure support.

ii. extended sigh

• Stepwise increase in PEEP and reduction in tidal volume over 2 minutes
• Used in patients on VCV

VT (ml/kg IBW) PEEP/CPAP Duration (sec)

6 15 30
4 20 30
2 25 30
0 30 30

iii. staircase recruitment maneouvre (SRM)

PCV with stepwise increase in PEEP every 2 min, keeping driving pressure
constant, up to a peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) of 45 - 50 cmH2O
- PCV with driving pressure of 15 cmH2O, RR 10/min, I: E 1:1 FiO2 1.0.

16
 - Start with PEEP 20 cmH2O.
- PEEP is increased by 5 cmH2O every 2 min until PIP of 45 - 50 cmH2O
and PEEP 30 - 35 cmH2O.
- An alternative method is a stepwise increase in PEEP with return to
baseline between each increase.

5. Determining optimum PEEP after a recruitment manoeuvre:

a. Set PEEP at 20 cmH2O and reduce the PEEP in a stepwise fashion (1 cmH2O
every 3 minutes) to achieve a maximal decrease in PaO2 or CRS.
b. PaO2 reduction of >10% or a reduction in CRS indicates de-recruitment and
collapse pressure.
c. Repeat recruitment with sustained high pressure inflation. (CPAP 30 - 50
cmH2O for 20 - 40 s with zero pressure support). Inflation depending upon the
peak pressue used during lung recruitment.
d. Optimal PEEP is at 2 cmH2O above the collapse pressure.

6. Post recruitement assessment, if PaO2/FiO2 ≤ 150 mmHg, start deep sedation

and prone ventilation. Consider NMBA.

IV. Early prone positioning

1. Severe hypoxaemic patient should be placed in prone positioning within 24 hours

for at least 16 consecutive hours.

2. Contraindications to prone position:

Absolute Relative

• Spine instability • Severe haemodynamic instability or

• Raised ICP arrhythmias
• Open abdominal wounds
• Multiple trauma with unstablised
fractures
• Pregnancy
• Pulmonary haemorrhage
• Facial trauma

3. Measure ABG and respiratory compliance, 1 hour before turning to supine position
and within 4 hours following supine position.

4. Prone position is no longer required when there is sustained improvement of

oxygenation as defined by PaO2/FiO2 > 150 mmHg with FiO2 < 0.6 and PEEP
10 - 15 cmH2O at 4 hours upon turning to supine.

5. Patient may be placed in prone position again at anytime before the 4 hour
assessment if oxygenation criteria is not met.

17
6. Complications of prone include desaturation, hypotension, pressure ulcers,
unplanned extubation, facial and airway oedema and catheter dislodgement.

V. Neuromuscular blocking agents

1. Muscle paralysis may be considered in the early phase of severe hypoxaemia in

selected patients e.g. patients with ventilatory dyssnchrony or in prone position.

2. Current evidence supports using cisatracurium besylate for not more than 48
hours.

3. There is no consensus on the depth of muscle paralysis. Titrating to achieve

‘Train of Four’ count of 2/4 with peripheral nerve stimulator may be reasonable.

4. Concerns using NMB include neuropathy and the need for deep sedation.

VI. Non-ventilatory strategy

1. Conservative fluid management that utilises fluid restriction and diuretics may
improve oxygenation.

2. The use of corticosteroids cannot be recommended with the current level of

evidence.

3. Consider echocardiography to assess right heart function.

a. Acute cor pulmonale in severe hypoxaemic failure may require right heart
inotropic support and afterload reduction.

b. RV protective ventilation strategy include:

i. limit Pplat < 27 cmH2O
ii. limit driving P < 15 cmH2O
iii. target PaCO2 < 60 mmHg
iv. decrease PEEP if RV dysfunction
v. prone positioning

4. Refractory hypoxaemia may be secondary to patent or reopened foramen ovale

with cardiac shunt.

18
Lung recruitment maneouvre using PCV with stepwise incremental PEEP and
optimum PEEP determination

∆P 15 cmH2O RR 10/min I:E 1:1 FiO2 1.0,

PEEP 20 cmH2O x 2 min

∆P 15 cmH2O RR 10/min I:E 1:1 FiO2 1.0 Lung

PEEP 25 cmH2O x 2 min recruitment

∆P 15 cmH2O RR 10/min I:E 1:1 FiO2 1.0

PEEP 30 cmH2O x 2 min

∆P 15 cmH2O RR 10/min I:E 1:1 FiO2 1.0

PEEP 20 cmH2O x 2 min

Determining
op‚mum PEEP
Reduce PEEP by 1 cmH2O every 3 mins
Determine closing pressure using either:
- Best oxygena‚on method
- Best compliance method

Set op‚mum PEEP 2 cmH2O above closing pressure

Repeat recruitment manoeuvre with sustained high pressure

infla‚on depending on the peak pressure used during ini‚al
recruitment for 20 - 30s

Ven‚late with the following aims:

– Pplat ≤ 30 cmH2O
– -Vt ≤ 6 ml/kg IBW

∆P = driving pressure

19
References

1. Fan E, et al. Acute respiratory distress syndrome: Advances in diagnosis and treatment.
JAMA 2018;319(7):698-710

2. Chuimello D, et al. Severe hypoxaemia: which strategy to choose. Crit Care 2016;20:132

3. Writing group for the alveolar recruitment for acute respiratory distress syndrome trial
(ART) investigators. Effect of lung recruitment and titrated positive end-expiratory
pressure (PEEP) vs low PEEP on mortality in patients with acute respiratory distress
syndrome: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA 2017;318(14):1335-1345

4. Papazian L, et al. Neuromuscular blockers in early acute respiratory distress syndrome.

N Engl J Med 2010;363:1107-1116

5. Guerin C, et al. Prone positioning in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome. N Engl
J Med 2013;368:2159-68

6. Vieillard-Baron A, et al. Acute cor pulmonale in ARDS. Intensive Care Med

2013;39(10):1836-1838

7. Peek GJ, et al. CESAR: conventional ventilatory support vs extracorporeal membrane

oxygenation for severe adult respiratory failure. BMC Health Serv Res 2006:163

20
Weaning from Mechanical Ventilation
Introduction

A weaning protocol is a systematic guide to aid the process of discontinuation of

patients from mechanical ventilation. It should encompass sedation optimisation,
early mobilisation, systematic assessment for readiness to wean, spontaneous
breathing trials (SBT), screening for post-extubation stridor in patients at risk and use
of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in those at high risk of post-extubation failure.

Principles

1. Weaning begins as soon as the underlying cause for mechanical ventilation has
sufficiently improved, the level of ventilation support is reduced and transition to
spontaneous breathing is initiated.

2. Benefits of early weaning should be weighed against risks associated with failed
extubation.

3. Weaning requires a sedation protocol aiming for light sedation and a rehabilitation
protocol directed towards early mobilisation.

4. Assess patients’ readiness to wean on a daily basis.

5. Perform SBT in patients who pass readiness to wean and assess for extubation
in those who pass the SBT.

6. Perform a cuff leak test in patients at high risk of post-extubation stridor.

7. Initiate NIV weaning in selected patients at high risk of weaning failure.

Assessment of readiness to wean

1. Weaning can be classified as simple, difficult or prolonged.

Definition Incidence in ICU

Simple • Pass first SBT and successfully extubated 50 - 67%
Difficult • Require up to 3 SBTs or 26 - 39%
• Require up to 7 days to pass a SBT
Prolonged • Fail > 3 SBTs or 6 - 14%
• Require > 7 days to wean

21
2. Assess for readiness to wean on a daily basis after resolution of the disease
process.

3. Clinical criteria to determine readiness for SBT:

a. Spontaneous respiratory effort

b. Respiratory stability
PaO2/FiO2 ratio ≥ 150 or SpO2 > 90% on FiO2 < 0.5 and PEEP 5 - 8 cmH2O
(in patients with chronic hypoxaemia, PaO2/FiO2 ≥ 120 is acceptable)

c. Cardiovascular stability:
i. HR < 140
ii. SBP > 90 mmHg and < 180mmHg
iii. minimal or no vasopressors (noradrenaline or adrenaline < 0.15 ug/kg/min)
iv. no ongoing myocardial ischaemia
v. pH > 7.25

d. Hb > 7.0 g/dL (preferable)

e. Temperature < 38.5˚C (preferable)

f. Awake and alert or easily arousable (preferable)

Spontaneous breathing trial

1. SBT is used to identify patients who are likely to fail liberation from mechanical
ventilation.

2. It refers to a patient spontaneously breathing through the endotracheal tube

(ETT) for a set period of time, with or without minimal ventilatory support.

3. Ideally, the patient should be awake on minimal or no sedative infusion.

4. The methods of SBT include:

a. Without ventilatory support
T-piece trial - disconnect ETT from ventilator and provide humidified oxygen
via a T-piece

b. With minimal ventilator support (additional support may overcome the

resistance of ETT)
i. low level pressure support (5 - 8 cmH2O) and PEEP (1 - 5 cmH2O) - preferred
ii. CPAP (5 cmH2O) with zero pressure support
iii. automatic tube compensation (available in some ventilators)

5. A duration of 30 mins for an initial trial is usually sufficient. For patients who have
failed previous SBTs or on prolonged ventilation, longer trials of up to 2 hours may
be required to determine whether mechanical ventilation can be discontinued.

22
6. Besides relying on objective criteria, clinical judgment is required in assessing if
a patient can be successfully weaned. Criteria to stop SBT.

General Neurological Respiratory Cardiovascular

• excessive • agitation • use of accessory • HR > 140/min or

sweating • anxiety muscles increase > 20%
• confusion • thoraco-abdominal • SBP > 180 or
paradox < 90 mmHg (or
• sustained increase increase/decrease
in RR > 35/min by > 20%)
• PaO2 < 60 mmHg, • new onset of
SpO2 < 90% arrhythmias
• increase in PaCO2
> 10 mmHg
• pH < 7.25 or pH
decrease by > 0.1
• Rapid shallow
breathing index
(RSBI) > 105 (RSBI
= RR/TV in litres)

7. Assess for extubation if the patient passes SBT.

8. Terminate immediately if fails SBT and provide supportive mode of ventilation

with higher settings. Do not repeat SBT for the next 24 hours and approach as a
difficult-to-wean patient.

Extubation criteria

1. Assessment of ability to protect airway:

Level of consciousness Cough strength Quantity of secretions

• Preferably alert, awake, • Semi-objective assessment • The following is associated

follows commands of cough strength: with higher risk of extubation
• Pass 4 tasks test: 0 = no cough failure:
- open eyes 1 = audible air movement - moderate to abundant
- follow examiner with eyes only secretions
- grasp hand 2 = weak, barely audible - frequency of suctioning
- stick out tongue cough < 2 hours
• In traumatic brain injury, 3 = clearly audible
GCS ≥ 8/15 is acceptable 4 = stronger cough
when neurological status is 5 = multiple sequential
stable strong coughs
• Strengths of < 2 are
associated with higher risk of
extubation failure

23
2. Perform a cuff leak test as a surrogate marker of laryngeal oedema in patients at
high risk of post-extubation stridor. These include:
a. Traumatic intubation
b. Duration of intubation ≥ 7 days
c. Excessively large ETT (≥ 7.5 mm in women, ≥ 8.5 mm in men)
d. Excessive ETT mobility (psychomotor agitation or ETT not anchored properly)
e. Reintubation after unplanned extubation

3. Perform a cuff leak test as follows:

a. Use volume-controlled ventilation and record inspiratory tidal volume

b. Deflate cuff and average the cuff leak volume over 6 breaths

c. Calculate cuff leak volume (CLV) i.e. the difference between the inspired tidal
volume and average expired tidal volume. CLV < 110 ml or < 15-20% of
delivered tidal volume indicates a failed cuff leak test.

4. In patients who fail a cuff leak test, the administration of systemic steroids 4 hours
prior to extubation has been shown to reduce risks of post-extubation stridor and
reintubation.
a. Recommended agent is single dose iv methylprednisolone 40 mg. The
alternative is iv dexamethasone 8 mg.

b. A repeat cuff leak test is not required after administration of systemic steroids.

Difficult-to-wean

1. Provide ventilator management that encourages spontaneous breathing while

avoiding respiratory fatigue.

2. Use pressure support (PS) as a weaning method i.e. continuous gradual reduction
of PS by 2 cmH20 at a time, once or twice a day. Once PS is reduced to minimal
level, repeat SBT on daily basis.

3. Consider the following strategies before resuming SBT:

a. Place patient in upright position for the SBT
b. Suction airway secretions
c. Optimise nutrition, taking care not to over or underfeed
d. Ensure adequate nocturnal rest with daytime respiratory muscle training
e. Aim for negative balance in patient with positive cumulative fluid balance
f. Consider longer duration of SBT of up to 2 hours

4. Identify and treat causes (see appendix) of weaning failure by performing a

detailed physical examination and investigations as indicated.

5. Consider tracheostomy in patients who are unable to wean within 1 - 3 weeks.

24
Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) for weaning

1. NIV for weaning can only be successful in patients with good airway protection,
strong cough and manageable secretions.

2. Potential candidates for NIV weaning are those at high-risk for weaning failure:
a. COPD
b. Congestive heart failure
c. Elderly > 65 years
d. Hypercapnia during SBT
e. Failed > 1 SBT

3. Start NIV immediately after extubation and maintain for at least 24 hours.

4. Do not delay reintubation in patients who fail NIV.

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen

1. Consider HFNC oxygen in patients with post-extubation hypoxaemic respiratory

failure, (if available).

Prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV)

1. A common consensus definition is requirement of ventilation > 21 days for at least

6 hours a day.

2. These patients will require a tracheostomy.

3. Identify factors that are potentially reversible.

4. Perform increases in duration of SBT with frequent assessment for signs of

failure during SBT. A suggested approach is as follows:
a. Assess for readiness to wean when PS has been gradually reduced to 10 - 12
cmH2O.

b. Perform SBT using trachemask for a specified duration e.g. 2 hours.

c. If SBT is successful, perform daily SBT of progressively longer duration e.g. 4

hours, 6 hours etc.

d. Lengthen the SBT duration if patient feels comfortable and wishes to continue
at the end of the SBT.

e. Do not repeat the SBT for at least another 24 hours if SBT fails.

f. The eventual goal is to reach 24 hours and be completely liberated from the
ventilator.

25
5. Patients requiring PMV should not be considered permanently ventilator-
dependent until at least 3 months of weaning attempts have failed, unless the
respiratory failure is due to an irreversible process.

Weaning from mechanical ventilation

Invasive mechanical
venlaon

Resoluon No
of disease

Yes

No Ready to
wean?

Yes

Spontaneous Fail Difficult to wean

breathing trial (suggest PSV as
weaning method)

Pass

Ability to protect No Consider

airway tracheostomy

Yes

Yes Absent Single dose systemic

High risk of post- steroids 4 hours
extubaon stridor Cuff leak test
before extubaon

Present
No

High risk of Yes Extubate to NIV

extubaon (NIV weaning)
failure

No

Extubate

(modified and reproduced with permission from Professor Gavin Joynt, Chinese University of Hong Kong)

26
References

1. Ouellette DR, et al. Liberation from mechanical ventilation in critically ill adults: An official
American College of Chest Physicians / American Thoracic Society clinical practice
guideline. Inspiratory pressure augmentation during spontaneous breathing trials,
protocols minimizing sedation, and non-invasive ventilation immediately after extubation.
Chest 2017;151(1):166-180

2. Girard TD, et al. An official American Thoracic Society / American College of Chest
Physicians clinical practice guideline: Liberation from mechanical ventilation in critically
ill adults. Rehabilitation protocols, ventilator liberation protocols, and cuff leak tests. Am
J Respir Crit Care Med 2017;195(1):120-133

3. Burns KEA, et al. Use of non-invasive ventilation to wean critically ill adults off invasive
ventilation: meta-analysis and systematic review. BMJ 2009;338:b1574

4. Jaber S, et al. Effects of steroids on reintubation and post-extubation stridor in adults:

meta-analysis of randomised control trials. Crit Care 2009;13(2):R49

5. Helviz Y, et al. A systematic review of the high-flow nasal cannula for adult patients. Crit
Care 2018;22:71

27
Appendix: Causes of weaning failure or failed SBT

1. Cardiovascular
- Heart failure
- Myocardial ischaemia

2. Respiratory
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary oedema
- Bronchospasm
- Kinked or blocked tube
- Excessive secretions

3. Abdomen
- Abdominal distension causing splinting

4. Central nervous system (depressed central drive)

- Sedatives or analgesics
- CNS haemorrhage or infarction
- Encephalitis

5. Peripheral nervous system

- Critical illness neuropathy or myopathy
- Guillain-Barre syndrome, myasthenia gravis (usually apparent before weaning)

6. Sepsis (unresolved or new bout)

7. Metabolic
- Hypokalaemia
- Hypomagnesemia
- Hypophosphatemia
- Severe hypothyroidism or myxoedema (rare but treatable)
- Metabolic alkalosis

8. Over or underfeeding

9. Neuropsychological
- Delirium
- Anxiety
- Depression

10. Anaemia

28
Pain, Sedation and Delirium
Management of sedation and delirium in ICU patients has evolved, emphasizing on
effective pain management and aiming for light sedation. A safe and effective strategy
should be implemented to avoid complications and conflicts with other management
goals e.g. weaning from mechanical ventilation and early mobilisation.

Principles

1. Focus first on analgesia, then sedation.

2. Practise analgesic-first sedation by using an analgesic (usually an opioid) prior to

a sedative to reach the sedation goal.

3. Aim for light sedation unless contraindicated.

4. Titrate analgesic and sedative drugs to a defined target, using the lowest effective
dose.

5. Identify risk factors and implement effective preventive measures for delirium.

6. Assess pain, sedation and delirium objectively using validated monitoring tools.

7. Employ pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies to manage pain,

agitation and delirium.

Pain

1. Use validated scales to monitor pain i.e. Behavioral Pain Score (BPS) or Critical
Care Pain Observational Tool (CPOT) in the unconscious, and Visual Analogue
Score (VAS) in the conscious patients.

2. Assess pain at least 4 hourly.

3. Institute pain management when pain score is:

a. ≥ 5 for BPS
b. ≥ 3 for CPOT
c. ≥ 3 for VAS

4. Opioid based analgesia remains the mainstay of pain management.

5. Consider adjuncts to an opioid to reduce the dose of opioid and/or reduce severity
of pain.
a. Paracetamol either administered intravenously, orally or per rectal
b. IV ketamine ketamine in post-surgical patients.

29
6. Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) can be provided for awake and cooperative
patients.

7. Use an analgesic prior to a procedure that may cause pain, with the lowest
effective dose possible and timed so that the peak effect coincides with the
procedure.

8. Use gabapentin or carbamazepine with opioids for neuropathic pain e.g. Guillain-
Barré syndrome.

9. Consider regional analgesia in selected surgical or trauma patients e.g. thoracic

epidural analgesia in post-operative abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery or
traumatic rib fractures.

10. Non-pharmacological interventions may be used to compliment conventional

pharmacological approaches e.g. music therapy, relaxation techniques or
massage therapy.

11. Pharmacological agents for pain management:

Drug Bolus dosage Infusion dosage Max dosage Side Effects

IV Fentanyl 0.35 - 0.5 μg/kg 0.5 - 2 μg/kg/h Cumulative

in hepatic
impairment

IV Morphine 2 - 4 mg 2 - 10 mg/h Cumulative in

renal and hepatic
impairment
(avoid if GFR
< 20)
Ileus with high
doses

IV Ketamine 0.1 - 0.35 mg/kg 0.1 - 0.5 mg/kg/h Dissociative

disorder with
higher doses

IV/PO IV : 500 mg - 1 4 g/day Hypotension

Paracetamol gm or 15 mg/kg (intravenous)
q6h Liver dysfunction
PO: 500 mg - 1
gm q6h

IV Remifentanil 0.5 μg/kg 0.05 - 0.5 μg/kg/ Rigidity,

* cost (loading) min bradycardia,
consideration hyperalgesia

IV/ PO IV/SC : 5 - 10 mg 2 mg/h > 60 yrs: 2.5 - 5

Oxycodone q4 - 6h mg q4 - 6h
PO: 5 - 10 mg
q4 - 6h

30
 Drug Bolus dosage Infusion dosage Max dosage Side Effects

IV/ PO Tramadol 50 - 100 mg 400 mg/day Interaction with

HCl q6 - 8h Creat cl < 30 ml/ TCA, SSRI,
min: 200 mg/day linezolid
Creat cl < 10 ml/ Seizures with high
min: 100 mg/day doses (especially
in traumatic
brain injury)

PO Gabapentin initial dose: 3600 mg/day Drowsiness

100 mg q8h Elderly: 100 mg Ataxia
maintenance: daily Dizziness
300 - 900 mg q8h Creat cl < 15ml/ Withdrawal
min: 300 mg/day syndrome

Sedation

1. Assess sedation with revised Riker Sedation Agitation Score or Richmond

Agitation Sedation Score (RASS) every 4 hours.

2. Aim for light sedation, either revised Riker -1 to +1 or RASS -2 to +1 with patient
being awake, calm and comfortable.

3. Use analgesia-first sedatives (morphine or fentanyl) in mechanically ventilated

patients.

4. If additional sedatives are required,

a. non-benzodiazepines (propofol or dexmedetomidine) are preferred over
benzodiazepines due to lower incidence of delirium. If propofol or
dexmedetomidine is used, consider patient’s haemodynamic status, anticipated
duration of sedation, drug availability and cost.

b. in haemodynamically unstable patient, either:

i. add intravenous midazolam
- initiate at 1 mg/hr and titrate by 1 mg/hr every 30 minutes to achieve
sedation goal.
ii. use “high” dose fentanyl alone
- initiate at 50 mcg/hr and titrate by 25 mcg/hr every 15 minutes. Maximum
500 mcg/hr.

5. Aim for deep sedation (revised Riker -2 to -3 or RASS -3 to -5) in the following
patients. Reassess daily need for deep sedation and wean sedatives when no
longer required.
a. head injury on cerebral protection
b. post cardiac arrest care
c. on high vasopressors or inotropes
d. on high ventilatory settings

31
 e. prone position
f. massive pulmonary haemorrhage
g. severe bronchial asthma
h. tetanus
i. on neuromuscular blocking agent

6. If deep sedation is required, add either intravenous infusion of midazolam or

propofol or both.

7. Consider dexmedetomidine in patients who are unable to wean off the ventilator
due to agitated delirium.

8. Use benzodiazepines to provide amnesia for procedures or in patients with

anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal or palliation.

9. Pharmacological agents for management of sedation and agitation:

Drug Bolus dosage Infusion dosage Max dosage Side Effects

IV Fentanyl 100 - 200 μg/hr 50 - 500 μg/hr Cumulative in hepatic

(“high” dose) impairment

IV Propofol 1% 1 - 2 mg/kg 50 - 200 mg/h 4 mg/kg/h Cumulative in hepatic

up to 48 - 72 impairment
hours Fatty liver
Hypotension
Hypertriglyceridemia
Pancreatitis
Propofol infusion
syndrome
Infection

IV Midazolam 0.01 - 0.05 0.02 - 0.1 mg/ Respiratory

mg/kg kg/h depression
Hypotension
Delirium
Agitation

IV 0.2 - 0.7 μg/kg/h 1.5 μg/kg/h Hypotension

Dexmedetomidine Bradycardia
Loss of airway reflex

Delirium

1. Delirium is diagnosed when there is alteration or fluctuation in mental status,

inattention and disorganised thinking. The 3 forms of delirium are hypoactive
(44%), hyperactive (2%) or mixed (54%).

2. Identify risk factors for delirium as soon as the patient is admitted to ICU.

32
 Patient factors Clinical factors Environmental factors
• Elderly • Sepsis • Isolation
• Dementia • Hypoxia • Immobility (including
• Alcohol or drug • Post-operative restraints)
dependence • Pain • Sleep deprivation
• Hearing or visual • Severe burns • Noise
impairment • Metabolic or electrolyte • Lighting
imbalances
• CNS pathology
• Endocrine disorders

3. Use validated screening tool, Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive
Care Unit (CAM- ICU) to assess delirium in the critically ill. Perform objective
assessment of delirium when RASS is > -3 or revised Riker > -2.

4. Consider the following non-pharmacological approaches to prevent delirium:

a. Correct physiological derangements.
b. Avoid physical restraints.
c. Perform early mobilisation.
d. Protect sleep cycles by clustering patient care activities, decrease stimuli at
night.
e. Improve environmental conditions e.g. orientation, noise reduction, adjustment
of light.
f. Use of visual and hearing aids, if applicable.

5. Pharmacologic agents are not used to prevent or treat delirium, but to control
symptoms in hyperactive delirium.

6. Pharmacological agents in symptom management in delirium:

Drug Dosage Max dosage Side Effects

IV/IM/PO 0.5 - 10 mg 100 mg/day Extrapyramidal symptoms

Haloperidol q4 - 6h or PRN Prolonged QT syndrome
Neuroleptic malignant
syndrome
Rhabdomyolysis

PO 6.25 - 25 mg q6 - 8h 500 mg/day Drowsiness

Chlorpromazine Anti-cholinergic effects

PO Olanzapine 2.5 mg q24h 20 mg/day Drowsiness

(increment of 5 mg daily) Anti-cholinergic effects

PO Quetiapine 25 mg q12h (increment 400 mg/day Drowsiness

of daily dose of 25 mg) Anti-cholinergic effects

PO Risperidone 0.5 mg q12h 6 mg/day Renal and hepatic adjustments

increase by 1 mg/day (max 0.5 mg q12h)
ever 2 - 3 days Drowsiness
Anti-cholinergic effects

33
Management of pain, agitation and delirium

1. Assess Pain

Yes IV morphine or
BPS > 5 fentanyl
CPOT > 3 ±
VAS > 3 adjunct analgesic
No

Reassess 2 hrly

2. Assess Sedaon

Oversedated Undersedated
RASS -2 to +1 RASS > +1
RASS < -2 Revised Riker -1 to +1
Revised Riker < -1 Revised Riker > +1

Haemodynamically unstable:
Withhold sedave to Add IV midazolam (lowest
achieve RASS -2 to +1 Connue analgosedaon
and reassess infusion rate to achieve effect)
or revised Riker -1 to +1. or “high” dose fentanyl
May restart at 50% of
the infusion rate Haemodynamically stable:
once target is Connue analgosedaon and
achieved. add IV propofol or
dexmedetomidine

Deep sedaon required:

Add IV midazolam infusion or
propofol or both

3. Assess Delirium

RASS > -3
Revised Riker > -2

Yes
Non-pharmacological management:
• Correct physiological derangements
Absent Perform CAM-ICU Present • Avoid physical restraints
Reassess 8 hours later • Perform early mobilisaon
Delirium Assessment
• Protect sleep cycle
Improve environmental condions e.g.
noise reducon, adjustment of light
• Use of visual and hearing aids,
if applicable

Symptomac pharmacological
management (in hyperacve delirium)

34
References

1. Devlin JW, et al. Guidelines for the prevention and management of pain, agitation/
sedation, delirium, immobility, and sleep disruption in adult patients in the ICU. Crit Care
Med 2018;46(9):e825-e873

2. Smithburger PL, et al. Pharmacologic considerations surrounding sedation, delirium and

sleep in critically ill adults: A narrative review. J Pharm Pract 2019;32(3):271-291

3. Balas MC, et al. Interpreting and implementing the 2018 of pain, agitation/sedation,
delirium, immobility, and sleep disruption guidelines. Crit Care Med 2018;46(9):1464-
1470

4. Sedation management in the ICU. Liverpool Hospital Guidelines 2015. Availabe at

[Link]
Sedation_Management.pdf Accessed on 15th June 2019

5. Jakob SM, et al. Dexmedetomidine vs midazolam or propofol for sedation during prolonged
mechanical ventilation: two randomized controlled trials. JAMA 2012;307(11):1151-1160

6. Schwenk ES, et al. Consensus guidelines on the use of intravenous ketamine infusions
for acute pain management from American Society of Regional Anaesthesia and
Pain Medicine, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Reg Anesth Pain Med
2018;43(5):456-466

35
Appendix 1: Behavioural Pain Scale (BPS)
Item Description Score

Facial expression Relaxed 1

Partially tightened (brow lowering) 2

Fully tightened (eyelid closing) 3

Grimacing 4

Upper limb movements No movement 1

Partially bent 2

Fully bent with finger flexion 3

Permanently retracted 4

Compliance with Tolerating movement 1

mechanical ventilation
Coughing but tolerating ventilation for most of the time 2

Fighting ventilator 3

Unable to control ventilation 4

BPS score ranges from 0 (no pain) to 12 (maximum pain)

Appendix 2: Critical Care Pain Observational Tool (CPOT)

Item Score Description

Facial expression Relaxed or neutral 0 No muscle tension

Tense 1 Frowning, brow lowering, orbit tightening or any

other change (e.g. opening eyes or tearing during
nociceptive procedures)

Grimacing 2 All previous facial movements PLUS eyelid tightly

closed (patient may have mouth opening or biting
ETT)

Body movements Absence of movements 0 No movement at all (does mean absences of

or normal position pain) or normal position (movements not aimed
toward pain site or not made for the purpose of
protection)

Protection 1 Slow, cautious movements, touching or rubbing

pain site, seeking attention through movement

Restlessness 2 Pulling tube, attempting to sit up, moving limbs/

trashing, not following commands, striking at
staff, trying to climb out of bed

36
 Item Score Description

Compliance Tolerating ventilator or 0 Alarms not activated, easy to ventilate

with ventilator in movement
intubated patient
Coughing but tolerating 1 Alarms may be activated but stop spontaneously
OR
Fighting ventilator 2 Asynchrony, alarms activated frequently
Vocalisation in
Talking in normal tone 0 Talking in normal tone or no sound
non-intubated
or no sound
patient
Sighing or moaning 1 Moaning, sighing

Crying out, sobbing 2 Crying, sobbing

Muscle tension Relaxed 0 No resistance to passive movements

(Evaluation by
passive flexion/ Tense, rigid 1 Resistance to passive movements
extension of upper
limb when at rest Very tense or very rigid 2 Strong resistance to passive movements, inability
or when being to complete them
turned)

CPOT score ranges from 0 (no pain) to 8 (maximum pain)

Appendix 3: Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS)

Scale Term Description

+4 Combative Overtly combative, violent, immediate danger to staff

+3 Very agitated Pulls or removes tube(s) or catheter(s); aggressive

+2 Agitated Frequent non-purposeful movement, fights ventilator

+1 Restless Anxious but movements not aggressive vigorous

0 Alert and calm

-1 Drowsy Not fully alert, but has sustained awakening (eye-opening/eye

contact) to voice (> 10 seconds)

-2 Light sedation Briefly awakens with eye contact to voice ( < 10 seconds)

-3 Moderate sedation Movement or eye opening to voice (but no eye contact)

-4 Deep sedation No response to voice, but movement or eye opening to physical

stimulation

-5 Unarousable No response to voice or physical stimulation

37
Appendix 4: Revised Riker Sedation Agitation Scale
Scale Term Description

+3 Agitated and When awaken or otherwise, pulling at ETT, trying to remove

restless catheters or requires physical restraints

+2 Awake but mildly Anxious but mildly agitated. Attempts to sit up but calms down with
agitated verbal instructions

+1 Awake and calm Awake, calm and easily follows commands

0 Aroused by voice Awakens easily to verbal stimuli. Remains awake, calm and easily
and remains calm follows command

-1 Aroused by Contact for at least 10 seconds but drifts off to sleep OR

movement

-2 Aroused by painful Localising or flexion to pain. Does not communicate or follow

stimuli commands

-3 Unarousable Extension, minimal or no response to painful stimuli

Appendix 5: Confusion Assessment Method for ICU (CAM-ICU) Delirium

worksheet

1. Acute change or fluctuang course of mental status CAM-ICU

No negave
• Is there an acute change in mental status from baseline? OR
• Has the paent’s mental status changed in the last 24 h? NO DELIRIUM

Yes

2. Ina enon
• Ask paent to squeeze your hand when you say the leˆer ‘A’ 0 - 2 errors CAM-ICU
Read the sequence of leˆers ‘SAVEAHAART’. negave
Error: No hand squeeze with ‘A’ or squeeze with leˆer other than ‘A’. NO DELIRIUM
• Use picture if unable to complete

> 2 Errors
RASS or
3. Altered level of consciousness revised Riker
other than 0
• Revise current RASS or revised Riker score CAM-ICU posive
DELIRIUM PRESENT
RASS or revised Riker = 0

4. Disorganised thinking > 1 error

Ask these quesons:
1. Will a stone float on water?
2. Are there fish in the sea?
3. Does 1kg weigh more than 2 kg?
4. Can you use a hammer to pound a nail?
Command (Say to paent):
Hold up this many fingers (hold up 2 fingers). 0 - 1 error
Now do the same with the other hand (don’t demonstrate) CAM-ICU
Or Add one more finger (if paent unable to move both arms) negave
NO DELIRIUM

38
Nutritional Therapy
Introduction
Early enteral nutrition attenuates metabolic response to stress, prevents oxidative
cellular injury and modulates immune responses. Enteral nutrition (EN) is preferred
over parenteral nutrition (PN). Parenteral nutrition is an alternative when enteral route
is neither sufficient nor feasible.

Principles

1. Assess nutritional risk.

2. Commence enteral nutrition within 24 to 48 hours upon ICU admission.

3. Aim only for 70% - 80% of targeted calories within 72 hours.

4. Aim to provide protein of at least 1.2 g/kg/day.

5. Prescribe parenteral nutrition after 5 - 7 days if enteral nutrition is not feasible.

6. Avoid overfeeding.

7. Identify patients at risk of refeeding syndrome.

Nutritional risk
1. Nutritional status should be assessed clinically to identify patients with malnutrition
or at risk of malnutrition.

2. The following patients are to be considered at high risk for malnutrition:

a. ICU stay for > 2 days and mechanically ventilated
b. Underfed for > 5 days
c. Pre-existing severe chronic disease

Enteral nutrition
1. Initiate EN within 24 - 48 hours of ICU admission if gastrointestinal tract is
functioning and patient adequately resuscitated.

2. EN should be delayed in:

a. In shock with haemodynamic instability
b. Severe hypoxaemic and acidosis
c. Active upper GI bleeding
d. Acute bowel ischaemic
e. Abdominal compartment syndrome
f. Gastric residual volume > 500 ml/6 hours

39
3. Aim to achieve only 70 - 80% of targeted calories in the first 72 hours of
admission i.e. the early phase of acute illness.

4. Provide EN via nasogastric or orogastric tube size 10 to 12Fr after confirming

correct placement by the following methods:
a. chest radiograph
b. aspiration of gastric contents
c. measuring pH of aspirate using pH indicator strip (if available)

5. Ensure head of bed is elevated at least 30 degrees during feeding.

6. Enteral feeding can be administered by various means:

a. Continuous: administered at an hourly rate using a feeding pump for 24 hours.
b. Intermittent: administered using a feeding pump over a few hours with
rest period in between e.g. feeding over 4 hours with 2 hours rest.
c. Bolus: administered by gravity over 15 min every 3 - 4 hours.

7. Enteral formulation
a. Use standard polymeric isocaloric or near isocaloric of 1 - 1.5 kcal/ml.
b. Consider diabetic specific formula with low glycaemic index in diabetics.
c. Consider a caloric dense formula in patients with fluid restriction.

8. Calorie and protein requirement

BMI Weight used Calories and protein target per day

Underweight Adjusted body weight = 20 - 25 kcal/kg

(BMI < 18.5) Ideal BW + Actual BW 1.2 - 2 g/kg1
2

Normal weight Actual body weight 20 - 25 kcal/kg

(BMI 18.5 - 29.9) 1.2 - 2 g/kg1

Obese Actual body weight or Ideal Calorie requirement

(BMI ˃ 30) body weight BMI 30-50:
11 - 14 kcal/kg actual BW
BMI > 50:
22 - 25 kcal/kg IBW2
Protein requirement
BMI 30-40:
2 - 2.5 g/kg IBW
BMI > 40:
Up to 2.5 g/kg IBW
1
Increase protein up to a maximum of 2.5 g/kg/day in patients receiving continuous renal
replacement therapy or on frequent haemodialysis
2
IBW: Ideal body weight = weight at BMI 25
Calorie contribution from other sources e.g. propofol infusion and dialysate should be included.

40
9. Monitor for feeding intolerance. Feeding intolerance is defined as high gastric
residual volume (GRV), abdominal distension, vomiting, diarrhoea or reduced
passage of stools.

A. GRV > 300 ml.

a. Use a prokinetic agent:
i. iv erythromycin 125 mg q6h or 250 mg q12h or
ii. iv metoclopramide 10 mg q8h

b. Combination of both agents have been shown to improve gastric tolerance

and may be considered. Both agents are associated with QT prolongation.

c. Review the need of prokinetics after 48 hours.

B. Diarrhoea
a. Defined as > 2-3 liquid stools per day or > 250 g liquid stool per day.

b. Do not routinely interrupt feeding for diarrhoea.

c. Factors that may contribute to diarrhoea:

i. type and amount of fibre in formula
ii. osmolality of formula
iii. delivery mode
iv. EN contamination
v. medications (antibiotics, PPI, prokinetics, laxatives)
vi. Clostridium difficile infection
vii. intra-abdominal collections following abdominal surgery

d. Management includes:
i. review of medications and dietary formula
ii. send stools for Clostridium difficile toxin assays
iii. monitor serum electrolytes
iv. rule out abdominal pathology

e. If diarrhoea persists consider the addition of soluble fibre supplement into

standard feeds or the use of small peptide semi-elemental formula

10. Monitor blood glucose levels

a. Keep blood glucose between 8 - 10 mmol/L
b. Start insulin if blood glucose > 10 mmol/L

11. Trophic feeding (defined as 10 - 20 ml/h or up to 500 kcal/day) should be

considered in:
a. Resolving shock (minimal or decreasing vasopressors or inotropes).
b. Prone position.
c. Intra-abdominal hypertension without abdominal compartment syndrome.

41
12. Fasting
a. In intubated patients, do not withhold feeding for procedures in ICU or
operating theatre or extubation.

b. Feeds should be aspirated prior to transport, procedures or extubation.

c. For non-intubated patients, follow the fasting protocol as per general

anaesthesia.

13. Safe practice for enteral nutrition

a. Use sterile water for formula reconstitution and tube flushing.

b. Feeding tubes to be flushed with at least 20 - 30 ml of water at the end of

feeding.

c. Flush volume should be included in daily fluid intake.

d. Hang time duration:

i. closed system (ready to hang): 24 hours or per manufacturer’s
recommendation
ii. sterile decanted formula: 8 hours
iii. powdered reconstituted formula: 4 hours

e. Change administration set every 24 hours.

f. Opened decanted formula must be refrigerated and discarded within 12 hours

if not used.

Parenteral nutrition

1.
Indications for PN:
a. As soon as possible in patients who are severely malnourished and EN is not
feasible.

b. After 5 - 7 days in patients not deemed malnourished on admission and EN is

not feasible.

c. Supplemental PN to be considered if > 60% of energy and protein requirement

via EN is not met after 7 - 10 days.

[Link]
a. Start with non-protein calories of ≤ 20 kcal/kg/day with protein of ≥ 1.2 g/kg/d.
Increase gradually and aim to achieve target within 5 - 7 days.

42
 b. Macronutrients required per day
i. carbohydrate 2 - 5 g/kg
ii. lipids 0.75 - 1.5 g/kg
iii. proteins 1.2 - 2.0 g/kg

c. Carbohydrate to lipid ratio should be between 60:40 or 70:30

d. Prescribe electrolytes based on daily serum levels.

e. Add trace elements and vitamins.

3. Administration
a. High osmolality via a dedicated lumen of a central line.
b. Low osmolality (< 850 mOsmol/L) can be administered via peripheral line.
c. Change administration set every 24 hours.

4. Monitoring
a. 2 hourly blood glucose. Target level of 8 - 10 mmol/L
b. Daily serum potassium, phosphate, calcium and magnesium.
c. Biweekly liver function test.
d. Weekly serum triglycerides. Target level < 4.5 mmol/L.

5. Discontinuation
Discontinue PN when patient receives > 60% of targeted calories enterally.

Refeeding syndrome

Refeeding syndrome(RFS) describes the biochemical changes, clinical manifestations

and complications that occur due to severe shift of fluid and electrolytes when a
malnourished patient is fed either enterally or parenterally.

[Link] factors
a. High risk: 1 or more major risk factors
- BMI < 16.5 kg/m2
- Unintentional weight loss of > 15% in the previous 3 - 6 months
- Little or no nutritional intake for > 10 days

b. High risk: 2 or more minor risk factors

- BMI < 18.5 kg/m2
- Unintentional weight loss of > 10% in the previous 3 - 6 months
- Little or nutritional intake for > 5 days
- History of alcohol abuse or drugs including insulin, chemotherapy or
diuretics

c. Extreme high risk: 1 of the following

- BMI < 14 kg/m2
- Little or no nutritional intake for > 15 days

43
2. Prevention and management of RFS:
a. Identify patients at risk.

b. Check phosphate, potassium and magnesium levels.

c. Provide immediately before and during the first 10 days of feeding: oral
thiamine 200 mg q24h, vitamin B complex 1 - 2 tablets q12h and multivitamins
q24h.

d. If patients are unable to tolerate orally, administer parenteral thiamine 200 to

300 mg q24h for 3 days followed by oral thiamine.

e. Start feeding at 10 kcal/kg/day. Slowly increase by 5 kcal/kg/day every 4 - 5

days. In extreme high risk, start feeding at 5 kcal/kg/day.

f. Rehydrate carefully and monitor fluid balance.

g. Correct levels of potassium, phosphate and magnesium along with feeding.

44
Feeding protocol

ICU admission

Intact GI tract/stable haemodynamics

Start EN within 24 - 48 h

Connuous feeding Intermient feeding Bolus feeding

Start 25 ml/h for 4 hours
Start 20 ml/h Rest 2 h Start 50 ml/3h

Aspirate at end of 4 hrs Yes Aspirate at end of 6 hrs Yes Aspirate > 300 before
next bolus feed
Aspirate > 300 ml Aspirate > 300 ml

No No No

Connue feeding at 20 ml/h Connue feeding at 24ml/h Connue feeding at

Aspirate every 4 hrs for 4 h. Rest 2 h then aspirate 50 ml/3H
Increase feeding by 20 ml/h at the end of rest period Increase feeding by 50 ml/3H
every 12 h Increase feeding by 25ml/h every 12 hours
Maximum: 80 ml/h every 12 h Maximum 250 ml/3h
Maximum 100ml/h

**Feeding Intolerance

Feeding Intolerance: GRV > 300 ml or vomiting

1st episode 2nd episode 3rd episode or more

1. Check gastric tube position 1. Return aspirates up to 1. Return aspirates up to

200 ml. Discard excess. 200 ml. Discard excess
2. Return aspirates up to
200 ml. Discard excess 2. Decrease rate by 20 or 2. Withhold feeds for 1 cycle
25 ml/h, If patient already on
3. Maintain EN at the same 20 - 25 ml/h, reduce rate to 3. Restart at lower rate or at
rate 10 ml/h 10 ml/h
4. if aspirates > 500 ml,
withhold feeding for 1 cycle 3. Start prokinetics 4. Continue prokinetics
and start prokinetics
4. Consider continuous or
intermittent feeding if patient
is on bolus feeding

• Aim only for 70 - 80% of targeted calories in the first 72 hours.

• Connuous feeding is preferred over intermient or bolus feeding

• Consider bolus feeding only in stable paents i.e.

- non venlated with an ancipated ICU stay of < 48 - 72 hours
- previously on connuous or intermient feeding

• Maximum volume* depends on:

- caloric requirements
- osmolality of formula e.g. Ensure (1 kcal/ml), Nepro (2 kcal/ml)

** Consider post-pyloric feeding if feeding intolerance persists for more than 72 hours.

45
References

1. Reintam Blaser A, et al. Early enteral nutrition in critically ill patients: ESICM clinical
practice guidelines. Intensive Care Med 2017;43:380-389

2. Cederholm T, et al. ESPEN guidelines on definitions and terminology of clinical nutrition.

Clin Nutrition 2017;36:49-64

3. McClave SA, et al. Guidelines for the provision and assessment of nutrition support
therapy in the adult critically ill patient: Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) and
American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.). J Parenter Enteral
Nutr 2016;40(2):159-211

4. Lewis K, et al. The efficacy and safety of prokinetic agents in critically ill patients receiving
enteral nutrition: a systematic review and meta- analysis of randomized trials. Crit Care
2016;20(1):259

5. Singer P, et al. ESPEN guidelines on parenteral nutrition: Intensive care. Clin Nutrition
2009;28:387-400

46
Early Mobilisation
Introduction

Prolonged immobilisation of critically ill patients may lead to neuromuscular

weakness, and impairment in physical and neuropsychiatric functions. Benefits of
early mobilisation include improved muscle strength, physical function and quality of
life. Additionally, early mobilisation may assist in weaning from mechanical ventilation,
reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, pressure ulcer and delirium. However, there
is lack of evidence of benefit in neurocritical care patients. There is also inadequate
evidence on the frequency and intensity of mobilisation, and devices to be used.

Principles

1. Initiate early mobility within 24 - 48 hours of admission in the absence of

contraindications.

2. Assess appropriateness of early mobility by weighing risks of adverse events

against benefits.

3. Step-up progression of mobilisation based on patient’s conscious level,

functional capability and endurance.

4. Implement early mobilisation in combination with pain, sedation and delirium

management.

General

1. Assess patients within 24 - 48 hours of ICU admission for early mobilisation.

2. Very early (less than 24 hours) and intensive out-of-bed mobilisation has been
shown to be harmful in acute stroke patients.

3. Contraindications to early mobility

a. Cardiovascular instability: SBP < 90 mmHg, HR > 120/min, unstable cardiac
rhythm, use of 2 or more vasoactive agents

b. Neurological instability: acute traumatic brain injury, acute intracranial bleed,

unstable spinal cord injury or any new neurological deterioration

c. Respiratory instability: FiO2 > 0.6, PEEP > 10 cmH2O and RR > 35/min

4. Early mobilisation activities requires a multidisciplinary team comprising of

clinicians, physiotherapists and nurses.

47
5. Consult the ICU specialist when there is uncertainty about safety.

6. Inform patients and families the importance of early mobility.

Activities

1. Level of activity and mobilisation should be guided by the patient’s conscious

state, strength and endurance as well as the assessment of the safety criteria.

2. Passive and active activities:

a. Passive activities involve movements performed by the physiotherapist e.g.
flexion and extension of limb joints.

b. Active activities involve the patient assisting using his own muscle strength.
These include:
i. in-bed exercises (any activity while patient is sitting or lying in bed): e.g.
rolling, bridging, upper limb weight training
ii. out-of-bed exercises e.g. sitting at the edge of the bed, sitting out-of-bed,
standing, marching on the spot, walking

3. In all patients, unless contraindicated,

a. Alternate supine position with right and left lateral positions 2 hourly.
b. Perform passive range of motion exercises.

4. In conscious patients perform the following activities:

State of patient Activities

Alert, responds to 3 of the 5 commands: • breathing exercises

- open or close eyes • active resistance exercises
- look when asked to • exercise for trunk control e.g. sit up
- open mouth and protrude tongue unsupported
- nod head • duration of activity for at least 20 mins
- raise eyebrows

Alert and able to move arm against gravity • sit at edge of bed with legs in dependent
position while providing support to upper
body

Alert and able to move legs against gravity • stand at bedside with support
• transfer to chair by pivoting or taking 1 - 2
small steps
• sit on chair for 1 - 2 hours
• walk with assistance, using a walker if
needed
• walk independently

5. Encourage self-care activities whenever feasible.

48
6. Cycle ergometer exercise or neuromuscular electrical stimulation may be used
as adjuncts to improve muscle strength and preserve muscle mass.

Safety

1. Terminate any physical activity if any of following signs and symptoms develop:
a. Oxygen saturation < 90%
b. Hypotension: SBP < 90 mmHg, associated with dizziness, and/or diaphoresis
c. Hypertension: SBP > 170 mmHg
d. Heart rate > 120 or presence of dysrhythmias
e. Respiratory rate > 30 or change in breathing pattern with increased use of
accessory muscles or nasal flaring
f. Chest pain
g. Patient requests to stop

2. Ensure the following safety measures for walking activities:

a. Adequate staff assistance
b. Tubes and catheters are secured
c. Wheelchair readily available to allow resting period and safe return to bed
d. Full oxygen tank

49
Mobility protocol based on levels of physical activity

LEVEL I LEVEL II LEVEL III LEVEL IV

UNCONSCIOUS CONSCIOUS CONSCIOUS CONSCIOUS

Passive range of Passive range of Passive range of Passive range of

movement movement 3x/day movement movement
3x/day 3x/day 3x/day

q2h turning q2h turning q2h turning q2h turning

Acve resistance Acve resistance Acve resistance

physical therapy physical therapy physical therapy

Sing posion Sing posion Sing posion

minimum minimum minimum

20 min 3X/day 20 min 3X/day 20 min 3X/day

Can move arms Sing on edge Sing on edge

against gravity of bed of bed

Acve transfer
Can move leg to chair,
against gravity Standing,
Walking
(assisted/frame)

1. As paent demonstrates increasing consciousness and strength, progress to the next level.

2. For level II acvity and above, refer to physiotherapist with aim of rehabilitaon towards funconal
recovery.

3. Mobility team is required when sing paent at edge of bed or during acve transfer to chair, standing
or walking.

50
References

1. Hodgson CL, et al. Expert consensus and recommendations on safety criteria for active
mobilisation of mechanically ventilated critically ill adults. Crit Care 2014;18:658

2. Morris PE, et al. Early intensive care unit mobility therapy in the treatment of acute
respiratory failure. Crit Care Med 2008;36(8):2238-2243

3. Perme C, et al. Early mobility and walking program for patients in intensive care units:
creating a standard of care. Am J Crit Care 2009;18(3):212-221

4. Parker A, et al. Early rehabilitation in the intensive care unit: preventing physical and
mental health impairments. Curr Phys Med Rehabil Reports 2013;1(4):307-314

5. Maffiuletti NA, et al. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation for preventing skeletal-muscle

weakness and wasting in critically ill patients: a systematic review. BMC Med 2013;11:137

51
Appendix: Safety considerations for active mobilisation

Low risk of an adverse event.

Proceed as usual as per ICU protocol and procedures.

Potential risk and consequences of an adverse event are higher than but may be
outweighed by the potential benefits of mobilisation.
If mobilised, do so gradually and cautiously.

Significant potential risk or consequences of an adverse event.

Respiratory In-bed Out-of-bed Cardiovascular In-bed Out-of-bed

considerations exercises exercises considerations exercises exercises

Intubation IV anti-HPT for

hypertensive emergency
Endotracheal tube
MAP

Tracheostomy tube Below target

FiO2 Within target with no/low

support
≤ 0.6
Within target with
> 0.6 moderate support

Within target with high

SpO2
support
≥ 90%
Pulmonary hypertension
< 90% Stable tachyarrthymias with ventricular rate
Respiratory rate
> 150/m
≤ 30 bpm
120 - 150/m
> 30 bpm
< 120/m
PEEP
Bradycardia
≤10 cmH20 Requiring treatment or
awaiting pacing
>10 cmH20
Not requiring treatment
Ventilator or pacing
dysynchrony
Shock of any cause with
Prone lactate < 4 mmol/L

Known or suspected
acute DVT/PE

Cardiac ischaemia
(ongoing chest pain
and/or dynamic ECG
changes)

52
Neurological In-bed Out-of-bed Neurological In-bed Out-of-bed
considerations exercises exercises considerations exercises exercises

Level of consciousness Ongoing active management of intracranial HPT

RASS or revised Riker - Yes

-1 to +1

RASS or revised Riker - No

-2 or +2
Uncontrolled seizures
RASS or revised Riker
< -2 Craniectomy
RASS or revised Riker
Spinal precautions (pre-
>+2
clearance or pre-fixation)
Delirium Acute spinal cord injury
(stable)
CAM-ICU negative

CAM-ICU positive + obey

commands

CAM-ICU positive +
unable to obey

Other medical In-bed Out-of-bed Surgical In-bed Out-of-bed

considerations exercises exercises considerations exercises exercises

Uncontrolled active Unstable major fracture

bleeding - Pelvic
- Spinal
Increased bleeding risk - Lower limb long bone

ICU-acquired weakness Large open surgical

wound
Venous and arterial - Chest
femoral catheters - Abdomen

Femoral sheaths

CRRT (including femoral

catheter)

All other drains and

attachments e.g.
Nasogastric tubes
Central venous catheter
Pleural drain
Wound drain
Intercostal catheter
Urinary catheter

53
Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis
Introduction

Stress ulcers develop in the critically ill patients due to hypotension, ischaemic and
reperfusion injuries. The gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal damage ranging from gastric
erosions to ulcers results in occult to clinically significant bleeding. Maintaining
adequate systemic perfusion and early enteral nutrition may play a role in preventing
stress ulcers.

Principles

1. Administer stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) only in patients with risk factors.

2. Reassess daily the need to continue SUP.

3. Discontinue SUP when risk factors have resolved.

1. Risk factors

Risk Conditions Indication for SUP

Low • No risk factors No

Moderate • Chronic NSAID/aspirin use To be considered

• Peptic ulcer disease > 1 year

High • Mechanical ventilation for greater than 48 hours Indicated

• Coagulopathy: INR > 1.5, APTT > 2x the control, platelets < 50 000/mm3
• Traumatic brain injury with GCS < 10 or spinal cord injury
• Significant burn injury (total body surface area > 30%)
• Acute liver failure
• Renal replacement therapy
• Use of 2 antiplatelets (clopidogrel, aspirin, ticagrelor, dipyridamole)
• History of upper GI bleed or gastric ulcer in the last 1 year
• Any 2 of the following:
i. sepsis
ii. high dose corticosteroid:
- hydrocortisone > 250 mg/day
- prednisolone > 60 mg/day
- methylprednisolone 50 mg/day
- dexamethasone 10 mg/day
iii. ICU stay > 7days
iv. occult bleeding of > 6 days

54
2. Drugs
a. No previous GI ulcers

Nil by mouth Enterally fed

Normal renal function IV Ranitidine 50 mg q8h T. Ranitidine 150 mg q12h
CrCl > 30 ml/min IV Ranitidine 50 mg q12h T. Ranitidine 150 mg q24h

b. Previous GI ulcers or on proton pump inhibitors (PPI)

Nil by mouth Enterally fed

Either Either
a. IV Pantoprazole 40 mg q24h a. T. Pantoprazole 40 mg q24h*

b. IV Omeprazole 40 mg q24h c. T. Omeprazole 40 mg q24h

c. IV Esomeprazole 40 mg q24h b. T. Esomeprazole 40 mg q24h

* T. Pantoprazole is enteric coated. (refer appendix for dilution)

3. Discontinue when risk factors have resolved and patient is tolerating enteral
feeding.

4. Treating active upper GI bleed

a. PPI remains the main stay of treatment.

b. Give a loading dose of 80 mg followed by an infusion of 8 mg/h over 48-72h.

Change infusion to q12h dosing for 2 weeks followed by q24h dosing for 4
weeks.

c. Concurrent endoscopy or surgery may be indicated.

References

1. Huang HB, et al. Stress ulcer prophylaxis in in intensive care unit patients receiving
enteral nutrition: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Crit Care 2018;22:20

2. Krag M, et al. Stress ulcer prophylaxis versus placebo or no prophylaxis in critically ill
patients. A systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta-analysis and trial
sequential analysis. Intensive Care Med 2014;40(1):11-22

3. Marik PE, et al. Stress ulcer prophylaxis in the new millennium: a systematic review and
meta-analysis. Crit Care Med 2010;38(11):2222-2228

4. Extemporaneous Formulation, Ministry of Health Malaysia 2015

[Link]
[Link]

55
Appendix: Extemporaneous preparation of pantoprazole

Dosage form: Solution

Strength: 2 mg/ml
Stability: 62 days
Storage: Refrigerate

Ingredients Quantity

Pantoprazole sodium 40 mg 5 tablets

Sodium bicarbonate powder 7.5 g

Distilled water 100 ml

Prodedure:
1. Crush tablets in a mortar to fine powder.

2. Levigate the powder with small amounts of distilled water till a smooth paste is formed.

3. Add more distilled water to the paste until liquid is formed.

4. Add the sodium bicarbonate powder. Stir until sodium bicarbonate and pantoprazole
completely dissolve.

5. Make up the final volume with distilled water.

56
Venous Thromboprophylaxis
Introduction

Most patients in ICU are at moderate risk of developing venous thromboembolism

(VTE), while the critically ill ones are at high risk. Pharmacological and/or mechanical
thromboprophylaxis should be routinely considered in critically ill patients, unless
contraindicated. However, venous thromboprophylaxis does not eliminate the risk
of VTE or VTE-related deaths. Current prediction scores for VTE and models for
evaluating risk of bleeding in critically ill patients require further validation. Early
mobilisation is an important approach in the prevention of VTE.

Principles

1. Assess bleeding risk before initiating pharmacological prophylaxis.

2. Select a pharmocological agent based on its pharmocokinetics and the risk of

developing VTE.

3. Use mechanical prophylaxis when pharmacological prophylaxis is contraindicated.

4. There is no role of routine screening for DVT.

Pharmacological Prophylaxis

1. All patients admitted to ICU should receive pharmacological prophylaxis, either

UFH or LMWH within 24 hours of admission unless contraindicated.

2. Contraindications to pharmacological prophylaxis:

Absolute contraindications Relative contraindications

• active major bleed (at least 2 units of • recent head and neck surgery,
blood or blood products to be transfused neurosurgery or eye surgery
in 24 hrs) • recent gastrointestinal or genito-urinary
• platelets less than 75 x 109/L surgery
• inherited bleeding disorders • recent CNS bleed
• active peptic ulcer disease • uncontrolled BP 230/130 mmHg
• acute liver failure

57
3. Weigh the risk of VTE against bleeding before initiating prophylaxis.

Risk factors of VTE Risk factors of bleeding

Non-surgical: - Active gastrointestinal ulcer
- Active malignancy - Significant bleed in the last 3 months*
- Previous VTE - Platelets < 75 x 109/L
- Immobilisation > 3 days - Age > 85 years
- Known thrombophilic conditions - PT > 2 x normal
- Obesity BMI > 30 kg/m2 - CrCl < 30 ml/min
- Ischaemic stroke - Acute stroke
- Acute myocardial infarction - Central neuroaxial blockade within
- Elderly > 60 years previous 4 hours or expected in 12 hours
- Cardiac or respiratory failure - Concurrent use of anticoagulant
- Sepsis - Bleeding disorder
- Rheumatologic disorder - Uncontrolled systolic hypertension (230 or
- Ongoing hormonal therapy higher)
- Pregnancy and post-partum

Surgical:
- Orthopaedic (hip or knee arthroplasty, hip,
pelvic or femur fracture)
- Multiple trauma
- Acute spinal cord injury
- Surgery in patient with multiple risk factors
- Abdominal-pelvic surgery for malignancy
*defined as bleeding associated with a decrease in Hb by > 2 g/dL, required blood transfusion > 2 units,
occurred in a critical site (intracranial, intraocular, retroperitoneal, spinal or pericardial).

4. Use low molecular weight heparin(LMHW) in patients with risk factors and
unfractionated heparin (UFH) in those without the above risk factors.

5. Dose adjustment of LMWH may be required in the following patients:

a. CrCl < 30 ml/min
b. BMI < 30 kg/m2
c. BMI > 30 kg/m2
d. Increased risk of bleeding

6. Reassess VTE and bleeding risk daily.

7. Discuss with surgeon before initiating pharmacological prophylaxis in patients

with traumatic brain injury or at high risk of post-operative bleed.

8. Continue pharmacological prophylaxis until the patient is fully ambulatory or

discharged from hospital.

58
9. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis and its practical considerations:

UFH LMWH Remarks

Agent Unfractionated Enoxaparin

heparin

Standard dose S/C 5000 IU q8h or S/C 40 mg q24h

q12h

Dose based on BMI In BMI > 30 with

• BMI < 20 kg/m2 S/C 5000 IU q12h S/C 20 mg q24h high risk of bleeding,
UFH is preferred
• BMI > 30 kg/m2 S/C 5000 IU q8h S/C 40 mg q12h given the ease of
reversal

Renal adjusted dose

(ml/min)
• CrCl > 30 No dose adjustment S/C 40 mg q24h

• CrCl 20 - 30 No dose adjustment S/C 20 mg q24h

• CrCL < 20 No dose adjustment do not use LMWH

Monitoring • Platelet • Platelet Monitor anti-Xa

• Haemoglobin • Haemoglobin factor to guide
• Renal function dosing in critically ill
if possible

Reversal in severe IV protamine sulphate IV protamine sulphate Other causes of

bleeding or urgent 1 mg per 100 IU of 1 mg per 1 mg of bleeding should be
surgery heparin (max 50 enoxaparin (max 50 considered (altered
mg) over 10 mins mg) over 10 mins. pharmacokinetics,
if heparin given in Half the dose if the drug interactions or
the last 8 hours. last dose of LMWH is incorrect dose)
*complete immediate between 8 - 12 hrs.
reversal *partial immediate
reversal

Withholding of 4 hours from the last 12 hours from the

prophylaxis before dose last dose
surgery and
procedures with
high risk of bleeding

59
Mechanical Prophylaxis

1. Provide mechanical prophylaxis with either intermittent penumatic compressor

(IPC) or graduated compression stockings (GCS) when pharmacological
prophylaxis is contraindicated.

2. IPC is preferred over GCS in patients at high risk of VTE.

3. Contraindications to mechanical prophylaxis:

a. Severe arterial insufficiency or periphery arterial disease
b. Congestive heart failure
c. Recent or acute DVT/PE
d. Acute fractures of the lower limbs
e. Loss of skin integrity
f. Recent skin graft
g. Post-operative venous ligation
h. Morbid obesity which makes it difficult to correctly fit the stockings
i. Oedema or deformity of the lower limb
j. Diabetic neuropathy

4. Ensure proper fit and optimal compliance of mechanical devices.

5. Assess skin integrity of the lower limbs and pressure areas every nursing shift.

6. Initiate pharmacological prophylaxis once bleeding risk subsides.

60
References

1. Guyatt GH, et al. Executive summary: Antithrombotic therapy and prevention of

thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians evidence-based clinical
practices. Chest 2012;141(2 Suppl):7S-47S

2. Duranteau J, et al. European guidelines on perioperative venous thromboembolism

prophylaxis: Intensive care. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2018;35:142-146

3. Afshari A, et al. European guidelines on perioperative venous thromboembolism

prohylaxis: Mechanical prophylaxis. Eur J Anaesthesiol 2018;35:112-115

4. Schunemann HJ, et al. American Society of Haematology 2018 guidelines for management
of venous thromboembolism: prophylaxis for hospitalized and nonhospitalized medical
patients. Blood Advances 2018;2(22):3198-3225

5. Venous thrombosis prophylaxis guidelines 2015; Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Available at [Link]
Manual/VTE Prophylaxis Guidelines Final 2-10-15. Accessed on 15th June 2019.

6. Guidelines for prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in adult hospitalised

patients, Queensland Health, December 2018. Available at [Link]
au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/medicines/safety. Accessed on 23rd July 2019

61
Prevention and Control of Multi-Drug Resistant Organisms
Introduction
Early identification of patients colonised or infected with multi-drug resistant organisms
(MDRO) is important to minimise the risk of transmission. The MDRO included in
this chapter are methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-
resistant Enterococcus (VRE) and multi-drug resistant gram negative organisms i.e.
MDR Acinetobacter baumannii, MDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa, extended-spectrum
β-lactamase (ESBL) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE).

Principles

1. Identify patients at risk.

2. Adhere to hand hygiene.
3. Use personal protective equipment.
4. Place in a single room or cohort for suspected or confirmed cases.
5. Intensify cleaning and disinfection of environment and equipment.
6. Comply with antimicrobial stewardship.
7. Provide education and training update to healthcare professionals.

1. Identify patient at risk of MDRO infection. The risk factors are:

MDR gram negative
MRSA VRE bacilli including resistant
Enterobacteriaceae

• Previous MRSA infection • Contact with patient • Contact with patient

or colonisation colonised or infected colonised or infected
• Frequent hospital • On dialysis • Recent broad-spectrum
admissions antibiotic (carbapenem,
• Prolonged or broad- quinolones, 3rd/4th
• Recent admission in a spectrum antibiotic use, generation
hospital with high specifically vancomycin cephalosporins)
prevalence of MRSA
• On urinary catheters • With invasive devices
• From long term care
facility • Prolonged hospital stay • Prolonged hospital stay
• Areas where community- • Chronic disease and • Chronic disease and
acquired MRSA is impaired functional status impaired functional status
prevalent • From high risk units (ICU/ • From high risk units (ICU/
• With chronic wounds nephrology/haematology/ burns/neurosurgery/solid-
solid-organ transplant organ transplant unit)
• From high risk units (ICU/ unit)
HDU/burns/spinal unit)

62
[Link] hygiene
a. Hand hygiene is the most important measure in preventing the transmission
of microorganisms.

b. Use either 70% alcohol-based hand rub or antiseptic soap and water.

c. Use soap and water if hands are visibly dirty or soiled with blood or other body
fluids.

d. Remove jewellery, watch or rings with ridges or stones prior to hand hygiene.

e. Observe the 5 moments of hand hygiene:

i. before touching a patient
ii. before any procedure
iii. after procedure or body fluid exposure risk
iv. after touching a patient
v. after touching a patient’s surroundings

f. Hand hygiene should always be performed:

i. before donning and after removal of gloves
ii. before and after using computer keyboard in a clinical area
iii. after leaving patient-care area including isolation rooms during an outbreak

g. Reinforce the importance of hand hygiene in an outbreak setting.

h. Audit compliance of hand hygiene and provide immediate feedback to

healthcare personnel.

3. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE includes aprons, gowns, gloves, surgical mask and eye shields used either
alone or in combination to protect healthcare personnel (HCP) from contact with
transmissible organisms. Selection of PPE is based on the extent of patient
contact.

Perform hand hygiene before donning protective personal equipment (PPE).

Plastic apron - Non-sterile, single use and disposable

- During care activities involving minimal patient contact where there is
low risk of contaminating the HCP arms e.g.
examining patient
airway suctioning
Gown - Fluid resistant, single use and disposable
- Long sleeved
- During care activities involving close patient contact with risk of
contaminating HCP’s arms e.g
dressing large or complex wounds
hygiene care of incontinent patient
turning and positioning of patient

63
 Non-sterile - Use clean non-sterile gloves before entering the room or cubicle
gloves - Change gloves and perform hand hygiene between different care/
treatment activities of the same patient
- Attend to ‘clean’ procedures first

Surgical mask To be used when performing splash or aerosol-generating proceudres e.g.

and protective intubation
eyewear oral or airway suctioning
wound irrigation
caring for patients with open tracheostomies

Discard the above single used items within the room/area. Perform hand hygiene before
leaving the room.

4. Isolation
a. Isolate patients colonised or infected with MDRO in single rooms.

b. Cohort patients if single rooms are not available. Cohorting refers to placing
patients who are infected or colonised with the same organism in the same
area.

c. Prioritise single room isolation to patients with:

i. CRE, VRE or MRSA
ii. incontinence of faeces or urine
iii. open or draining wounds
iv. enterostomies
v. copious respiratory secretions

d. Staff nursing patients with MDRO should not have contact with other patients.

e. Appropriate signage should be placed outside the door to alert HCP of contact
precautions.

[Link] of isolation precautions

a. Shedding of MDRO may be intermittent and their presence may not always be
detected by active surveillance culture.

b. Continue contact precautions for the duration of admission.

6. Equipment and patient care items

a. Remove non-essential equipment from the room.

b. Minimise consumable items placed in the room e.g. syringes, needles and
gauzes.

c. Use disposable items whenever possible.

64
 d. Dedicate reusable equipment to a single patient e.g. thermometer, blood
pressure cuff, infusion pumps, stethoscope, etc.

e. Clean and disinfect equipment that are shared between patients e.g. hoist and
armchairs.

f. Use dedicated trolley for sponging and cleaning.

7. Environmental cleaning
a. Increase cleaning frequency.

b. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (e.g. bedrails, drip stands,
nursing tables, trolleys, doorknobs, tap handles and switches) at least once
every nursing shift. This involves either:
i. 2-in-1 clean: commercially prepared combination of detergent and 1000
ppm chlorine solution or impregnated wipes
ii. 2-step clean: clean with detergent or detergent impregnated wipes and
disinfect with 1000ppm chlorine solution or impregnated wipes

c. Perform terminal cleaning after patient discharge:

i. terminal cleaning process should be monitored and supervised
ii. remove curtains prior to cleaning
iii. cleaning should include walls, bed, frequently touched surfaces and all
equipment
iv. discard unused consumables that cannot be disinfected

8. Antimicrobial stewardship
Antimicrobial stewardship programme refer to coordinated interventions to
ensure appropriate use of antimicrobials. When antimicrobials are prescribed
ensure:
a. Adequate dose and the shortest duration for efficacy.
b. Use the narrowest spectrum whenever possible.
c. De-escalate when cultures are available.

9. Education
a. Education of all staff, including cleaning staff should be intensified.
b. Reinforce standard and contact precautions.

10. Screening and surveillance

a. Contact screening is done to reduce the risk of transmission of MDRO.
i. screen patients who are in close contact for more than 24 hours with a CRE
or VRE confirmed case. Send rectal swab

ii. screening for other MDRO depends on local hospital infection control
policy

iii. isolate or cohort contacts pending screening result

65
 b. Active surveillance cultures should be considered in outbreak settings.
i. screen for CRE, VRE or MRSA in high risk patients admitted to the unit.
Send rectal swabs for CRE or VRE and nasal swabs for MRSA

ii. screening for other MDRO depends on local hospital infection control
policy

11. Other considerations

a. Inform support staff (e.g. radiographer, physiotherapist, pharmacist, dialysis
nurse and dietician) of patient’s status. Support staff to attend to the patient
last in the unit except in emergencies.

b. Visitors
i. all visitors are directed to perform hand hygiene before and after contact
with patient or environment
ii. visitors are not required to wear PPE unless involved in patient care

c. Patient’s movement
i. patient’s movement should be kept to a minimum
ii. if transportation is required such as to the radiology department, the
operation theatre or another facility, the receiving unit should be informed
of the patient’s status

d. Upon discharge, the receiving wards should be informed early, for isolation or
cohorting purposes.

References
1. Guidelines for the prevention and control of mulit-drug resistant organisms (MDRO)
excluding MRSA in the healthcare setting. Available at: [Link]
microbiologyantimicrobialresistance/infectioncontrolandhai/guidelines/Guidelines

2. A Clinical Guide for the Prevention and Control of Multidrug Resistant organisms (MDRO)
including Multi-resistant Gram-negaitive Bacteria ( like ESBL) and Glycopeptide resistant
enterococci (GRE/VRE). Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital 2018. Available at:
[Link]
resistant-organisms-ca5174-v1-1/ Accessed on 1.6.2019

3. Recommendations for the control of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae

(CPE). Australian commission on safety and quality in health care. A guide for acute
care health facilities. Available at: [Link]
uploads/2017/05/Recommendations-for-the-control-of-Carbapenemase-producing-
[Link]. Accessed on 1st June 2019
4. Management of multi-resistant organisms’ guideline. guideline. Queensland health 2017.
Available at: [Link]
[Link]. Accessed on 1st June 2019

5. Australian guideline for the prevention and control of infection in healthcare. https://
[Link]/about-us/publications/australian-guidelines-prevention-and-control-
infection-healthcare-2010. Accessed on 1st June 2019
66
Withholding and Withdrawing Life-Sustaining
Treatment
Introduction

The goals of intensive care are to return patients to a quality of survival that is
reasonably acceptable to them and to reduce disability. If these goals are not possible,
and family understands and agrees that this is not in keeping with the patient’s wishes,
then compassionate care needs to be instituted to allow death with dignity.

Withholding and withdrawing life-sustaining treatment (LST) is a process where

various medical interventions are either not initiated or [Link] is no ethical or
moral difference between withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment.

Principles

1. Abide by the principles of medical ethics when making end-of-life decisions.

2. Assess patient’s decision-making capacity on end-of-life decisions. Patients

with limited or absent capacity, families become surrogate decision-makers.

3. Respect patient’s autonomy except in cases of non-beneficial medical treatment.

4. Implement a palliative care plan once withholding or withdrawing LST is decided

upon.

5. Document clearly all decisions on withholding or withdrawing LST in the clinical

records.

6. Treat dying patients with respect, dignity and compassion.

Ethical principles

1. The principles that underpin end-of-life (EOL) medical decisions are:

a. Respect for autonomy: acting in accordance to what the patient wants
b. Beneficence: acting to benefit the patient
c. Non-maleficence: causing no harm to the patient
d. Distributive justice: paying attention to fairness and equity

2. These principles either used individually or collectively to frame the discussion

on EOL and one does not supersede the other.

67
3. The principles may be conflicting for example:
a. between respect for autonomy and beneficence: a terminal cancer patient
who insists all LST to be provided although they will not benefit him.

b. between beneficence and justice: providing invasive mechanical ventilation in

a patient with decompensated heart failure who has had multiple hospital
admissions in the last 6 months and is dyspnoiec at rest versus allocation of
ICU bed for a polytrauma patient.

Decision-making capacity

1. Patient’s decision-making capacity should be assessed before having a

discussion with him on EOL. This includes the patient’s ability to comprehend,
appreciate, rationalise and express choice of treament.

2. Most ICU patients do not have decision-making capacity and hence families
become the surrogate decision-maker.

3. The standards that may be used by surrogates in decision-making include:

a. Substituted judgement: decision of the patient if he/she has the capacity

b. Best interest: decision based on the potential benefits and burdens of

treatment vs. patient’s values and beliefs

4. EOL decisions are shared medical decisions made by clinicians and concurred
by family members.

Autonomy and obligation to treat

1. Once decision-making capacity is established, patient’s autonomy must be

respected even though survival may be implicated.

2. In cases of non-beneficial medical treatment, clinicians are not obliged to initiate

or continue LST.

3. The MMA Code of Ethics 2001 states:

“where death is deemed to be imminent and where curative or life-prolonging
treatment appears to be futile, ensure that death occurs with dignity and comfort.
Such futile therapy could be withheld, withdrawn or one may allow irreversible
pathology to continue without active resuscitation. One should always take into
consideration any advance directives and the wishes of the family in this regard.
In any circumstance, if therapy is considered to be life saving, it should never be
withheld.”

68
Respect for the dying

1. All dying patients should be afforded the same standard of care as other patients

2. They should be treated with dignity, respect and compassion.

3. Their privacy and confidentiality should be respected at all times.

Withholding and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment

The following patients are to be considered for withholding and withdrawal of LST:

1. Imminent death
This patient has a severe acute illness that is clearly not responding to therapy,
and reversal or cure is unlikely despite continued optimal therapy. e.g. septic
shock with multiorgan failure.

2. Terminal condition
This patient has a progressive terminal disease incompatible with survival longer
than 3-6 months. e.g.
i. end stage respiratory disease on long term oxygen therapy with severe
community acquired pneumonia
ii. end stage cardiac, respiratory or liver disease with no options for transplant
iii. metastatic cancer unresponsive to treatment

3. Severe and irreversible condition impairing cognition and consciousness

but death may not occur in months
In such cases, a patient is often planned to not receive CPR or other resuscitative
measures in the event of deterioration e.g. persistent vegetative state post
cardiac arrest, severe dementia or severe stroke with poor cognitive recovery.

4. Advanced age with poor functional status due to chronic organic

dysfunction e.g.
Multiple co-morbidities with deteriorating physical performance.

5. Severe disability with poor quality of life e.g.

i. stroke with minimal conscious state or dense paralysis
ii. decompensated heart failure with ongoing shortness of breath at rest
iii. despite optimal therapy

6. Advanced diseases of progressive life limiting conditions e.g.

i. motor neuron disease with rapid decline in physical status
ii. severe Parkinson’s disease with reduced independence and needs
assistance for activites of daily living ( ADL)

69
7. A patient who has stated his/her wish against initiation or continuation of
life support therapy
This will include patients who have given clear advanced care directives.

Practical issues of withholding and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment

1. Medical team consensus

The intensive care team and the primary team should agree on EOL decisions.

2. Communication with patient and relatives

a. It is best that the same clinician (specialist/consultant) who is involved in the
active care of the patient deals with the family. He/she should be
someone who frequently communicates with the family and has established
a rapport with them. A witness (nurse or doctor) should be present during
these discussions.

b. Clinicians need to respect the fact that each patient and family will differ in
how much input they wish to have in the decision-making process.

c. In the event of a disagreement, allow time for repeated discussions and

negotiations. Failing this, consider either:
i. time limited trial (TLT) which is a goal-directed trial of any intervention
limited by predetermined outcomes that are evaluated at planned intervals.
ii. second medical opinion from another clinician from a similar specialty
iii. facilitation by a third party e.g. spiritual advisor

d. Patients and families must be given sufficient time to reach decisions on EOL.

3. Management plan for withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment

A clear management plan is essential to ensure that the withdrawal process
occurs smoothly. It should be conveyed to the family, with an emphasis on
maintenance of comfort for the patient. The plan should include the following
components:
a. Maintain current support until the patient and family have had adequate time
together.

b. Ensure other healthcare professionals e.g. primary team, physiotherapist,

dietitian are aware of withdrawal plan. Cease all investigations e.g. blood
taking and X-rays.

c. Ensure pain and other symptoms e.g. dyspnoea are well controlled.
Morphine is the most commonly used opioid for analgesia and comfort. There
is no maximum dose. Large doses of opiods may be required for comfort and
may unintentionally hasten death. This “double effect” of opioids is acceptable.

d. Manage airway secretions by using glycopyrrolate, positioning in lateral

position and frequent suctioning.

70
 e. All treatment that do not contribute towards comfort should be discontinued
e.g. antibiotics, blood transfusions. Feeding and intravenous fluids may be
discontinued unless specifically requested by family.

f. Maintain patient’s personal hygiene and dignity at all times. e.g. diaper soiling
is dealt with immediately.

g. Withdrawal of vasopressors may result in immediate death. Families should

be aware and nearby.

h. Withdrawal of mechanical ventilation may be carried out either as:

i. terminal weaning where ventilator settings are reduced while leaving the
endotracheal tube in-situ or
ii. terminal extubation

i. Disable all monitor and ventilator alarms. Demedicalise the patient and allow
family members to be close by.

4. Other considerations
a. Family should be given unrestricted access to the patient.

b. Non-invasive ventilation may be used as a palliative care technique to minimise

dyspnoea in conscious patients.

c. Neuromuscular blockade makes assessment of comfort impossible and

should not be used in intubated patients.

d. Consider terminal sedation with benzodiazepines only when high doses of

opiod are inadequate for comfort.

5. Documentation
Document all decisions regarding withdrawal and withholding of treatment,
including the basis of the decision and amongst whom it was reached.

6. Notification of death
Death should be communicated in direct language gently.

7. Bereavement
Provide bereavement support to the family and healthcare providers if necessary.

71
Process of withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment

Clinical deterioraon/non-response to treatment

or paent’s desire to limit treatment

Management plan on
praccal aspects of
withdrawal/withholding No Assessment

Consensus to Disclosure
withdraw LST
Yes

Discussion with
family

Conflict
Opons:
• Time limited trial
• Second opinion
• Transfer of care

72
References

1. Lobo SM, et al. Decision-Making on Withholding or Withdrawing Life Support in the ICU:
A Worldwide Perspective. Chest 2017;152(2):321-329

2. Connolly C, et al. End-of-life in the ICU: moving from ‘withdrawal of care’ to a palliative
care, patient-centred approach. Br J Anaesth 2016;117(2)143-145

3. Sebastiano Mercadante et al. Palliative care in intensive care units: why, where, what,
who, when, how. BMC Anesthesiol 2018;18:106

4. Shanawani H et al. Meeting physicians’ responsibilities in providing EOL care. Chest

2008;133(3):776-786

5. John M Luce. End-of-Life Decision Making in the Intensive Care Unit. Am J Resir Crit
Care Med 2010;182(1):6-11

73
Invasive Mechanical Ventilation in Non-Critical
Care Areas
Introduction

Invasive mechanical ventilation in wards should be discouraged. However, some

patients are ventilated in the general ward due to limited resources. Clinical
considerations and principles of medical ethics should guide decisions on ventilating
patients in the ward.

Principles

1. Interdisciplinary discussion is essential when a decision is made to ventilate

patients in the ward.

2. The decision to ventilate patients in non-critical care areas should be reached on

the basis of clinical and ethical considerations.

3. Clinical considerations are based on the patient’s probable clinical outcome,

premorbid status and burden of treatment.

4. Level of monitoring and care of these patients should be provided accordingly.

Categories of patients

1. There are 4 categories of patients ventilated outside non-critical care areas:

Admission and
Category Description
discharge criteria
(refer chapter 1)

1 Patients who have a reasonable prospect of Priority 1 and 2A

meaningful recovery with good quality of life

2 Patients whose initial prospect of meaningful recovery Priority 2B

is uncertain

3 Patients with minimal or no prospect of meaningful Priority 3

recovery

4 Patients for chronic ventilation or “home ventilation” -

74
2. Category 1:
a. Make every effort to admit them to ICU.

b. Admit them to other critical care areas within the hospital while awaitng
availability of ICU bed.

c. Arrange for inter-hospital transfer to another ICU if critical care bed is

unavailable within the hospital. The arrangement and transport should
preferably be done by the ICU team.

d. A Category 1 patient should be given priority for ICU admission over an

elective surgical patient.

[Link] 2:
a. The specialists from the ICU team and primary unit should discuss on the
benefits vs. the burdens and risks of ventilation prior to intubation, including
the possibility of limitation of care at 24 - 48 hours if no improvement is
observed.

b. Involve families in the decision-making and inform them of the treatment plan.

c. If the joint decision is to intubate and ventilate the patient,

i. admit ICU if bed is available
ii. if bed not available assess for progress at 24 to 48 hours and consider
ICU admission if there is clinical improvement
iii. if patient is ventilated in the ward, manage as per Category 3 patient if there
deterioration

d. Continue care of the patient in the ward if the joint decision is not to ventilate.

e. Document the decision clearly in the case notes.

f. Seek second medical opinion to resolve differences if conflicts arises among

the teams.

4. Category 3:
a. Consider withholding or withdrawal of therapy while continuing comfort care.

5. Category 4:
a. Continue ventilation in the ward while preparing for home ventilation.

b. If the patient deteriorates, re-assess the indication for ICU admission and
manage accordingly.

75
Responsibilities

1. The primary team is responsible for the care of the patient in the ward.

2. The ICU team should review the patient daily.

Minimum requirements

1. Staffing:
Nurses should be trained and privileged on basic care and safety issues in caring
for patients on mechanical ventilation e.g.
a. Tracheal suctioning
b. Bag-valve-mask ventilation
c. Nebulisation
d. Recognition of life threatening events e.g. desaturation, ETT blockage,
disconnection or dislodgement of ETT
e. Infection control measures

2. Monitoring
a. Blood pressure, pulse rate and respiratory rate hourly
b. SpO2 - continuous if available
c. ECG - continuous if available
d. Level of consciousness
e. Arterial blood gases as indicated
f. Other standard nursing monitoring

3. Equipment (readily available)

a. Yankauer suction
b. Suction catheters
c. Vacuum suction apparatus
d. Laryngoscopes
e. Endotracheal tubes and tapes
f. Oral airways
g. Bag-valve-masks
h. Resuscitation trolley

Procedures of care

These should include but are not limited to the following:

a. Elevate head of bed 30 degrees unless contraindicated
b. Ensure endotracheal or tracheostomy and nasogastric tubes are firmly secured
c. Perform tracheal and oropharyngeal suctioning q4h or more often if necessary
d. Position the patient at least 4 hourly

76
e. Perform general, eye and oral hygiene regularly
f. Ensure a functioning nasogastric tube for gastric decompression and nutritional
support
g. Perform chest and limb physiotherapy

Referral for ventilation

Referred for venlaon

Assess and categorise paent as

1, 2, 3 or 4

Connue venlaon in ward ± plan

Yes Yes
Category for home venlaon
Condion
4 stable
No Reassess and recategorise to
1, 2 or 3
No

Category Yes Iniate discussion on withdrawal of

3 therapy and end-of-life care

No

Category Yes Discussion between ICU and

primary team on intubaon Consensus
2 and venlaon to venlate

No Yes No

Category 1 Admit ICU if bed is available Connue ward

or management
venlate in ward

Category 1 Category 3
ICU bed Reassess within 24 - 48 hours
available and
recategorise to category 1 or 3
INTUBATION
Yes
No

Admit other crical care areas

while awaing ICU bed Admit ICU
or
transfer to another hospital

77
References

1. Zisk-Rony RY, et al. Mechanical ventilation patterns and trends over 20 years in an Israeli
hospital system: policy ramifications. Isr J Health Policy Res 2019;8:20

2. Iwashita Y, et al. Epidemiology of mechanically ventilated patients treated in ICU and

non-ICU settings in Japan: a retrospective database study. Crit Care 2018;22(1):329

3. Divathia JV, et al. Caring for the critically ill in developing countries: A perspective from
India. Rev Bras Ter Intensiva 2015;27(1):7-9

4. National operational policy of anaesthesia and intensive care services. MOH Malaysia
2013

5. The GSF Proactive Identification Guideline (PIG) version 6. The Golds Standards
Framework Centre in End of Life Care. Available at [Link]
[Link]/PIG Accessed 12th June 2019

78
Appendix 1: Examples of categories of patients ventilated in non-critical care
areas

Category 1
Patients who have a reasonable prospect of meaningful recovery with good quality of life

Category 2
Patients whose initial prospect of meaningful recovery is uncertain

Examples:
1. Metastatic cancer in septic shock secondary to hospital acquired pneumonia but with some
limitations of therapy e.g. no CPR

2. Decompensated heart failure with deterioration functional status and multiple hospital
admissions

3. Some but not all patients in The Gold Standards Framework Proactive Identification
Guidance (appendix 2) are in this category

Category 3
Patients with minimal or no prospect of meaningful recovery

Examples:
1. Irreversible brain damage impairing cognition and consciousness or in a persistent vegetative
state

2. End-stage cardiac, respiratory and liver disease with no options for transplant

3. Metastatic cancer unresponsive to chemotherapy and/ or radiotherapy

4. Severe disability with poor quality of life

5. Poor response to current treatment e.g. recurrent bowel leaks despite multiple laparotomies,
recurrent soft tissue or musculoskeletal infections despite multiple surgical interventions or
chronic medical conditions which fail to respond to treatment such as SLE and HIV

6. Advanced disease or progressive life limiting conditions such as motor neuron disease,
advanced Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis

7. End-stage renal disease with no option or refusal for renal replacement therapy

8. Explicitly stated their wish not to receive life support therapy and refusal of treatment

Category 4: Patients for chronic ventilation or “home ventilation”

Examples:
1. Gullian Barre syndrome
2. Complete tetraplegia in high cervical spinal cord injury
3. Motor neurone disease
4. Mitochondrial myopathies

79
Appendix 2: A guide to identifying patients for supportive and palliative care
Ref: The Gold Standards Framework Proactive Identification Guidance UK 6th Edition Dec 2016

General indicators of decline and increasing needs

• General physical decline, increasing • Decreasing response to treatments, decreasing

dependence and need for support reversibility

• Repeated unplanned hospital admissions • Patient choice for no further active treatment
and focus on quality of life

• Advanced disease - unstable, deteriorating, • Progressive weight loss (> 10%) in past six
complex symptom burden months

• Presence of significant multi-morbidities • Sentinel event e.g. serious fall, bereavement,

transfer to nursing home

• Decreasing activity - functional performance • Serum albumin < 25 g/L

status declining (e.g. Barthel score) limited self-
care, in bed or chair 50% of day and increasing
dependence in most activities of daily living

Specific Clinical Indicators

1. Cancer

• Deteriorating performance status and functional • Persistent symptoms despite optimal palliative
ability due to metastatic cancer, multi- oncology. More specific prognostic predictors
morbidities or not amenable to treatment - if for cancer are available, e.g. Palliative
spending more than 50% of time in bed/lying Performance Scale (PPS)
down, prognosis estimated in months

2. Organ Failure

Heart disease: at least 2 of the indicators below

• CHF NYHA Stage 3 or 4 with ongoing • Difficult ongoing physical or psychological

symptoms despite optimal HF therapy - symptoms despite optimal tolerated therapy
shortness of breath at rest on minimal exertion

• Repeated admissions with heart failure - 3 • Additional features include hyponatraemia

admissions in 6 months or a single admission < 135 mmol/L, high BP, declining renal function,
aged over 75 (50% 1yr mortality) anaemia etc

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: at least 2 of the indicators below

• Recurrent hospital admissions (at least 3 in last • Fulfils long term oxygen therapy criteria
year due to COPD) (PaO2 < 7.3kPa)

• MRC grade 4/5 - shortness of breath after • Required ICU/NIV during hospital admission
100 metres on level

• Disease assessed to be very severe (e.g. FEV1 • Other factors e.g., right heart failure, anorexia,
< 30% predicted), persistent symptoms cachexia, > 6 weeks steroids in preceding
despite optimal therapy, too unwell for surgery 6 months, requires palliative medication for
or pulmonary rehabilitation breathlessness, still smoking

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Chronic kIdney disease Stage 4 or 5 whose condition is deteriorating with at least 2 of the
indicators below

• Repeated unplanned admissions (more than 3/ • Difficult physical or psychological symptoms

year) that have not responded to specific treatments

• Patients with poor tolerance of dialysis with • Symptomatic renal failure in patients who have
change of modality chosen not to dialyse - nausea and vomiting,
anorexia, pruritus, reduced functional status,
• Patients choosing the ‘no dialysis’ option intractable fluid overload
(conservative), dialysis withdrawal or not opting
for dialysis if transplant has failed

Liver disease

• Hepatocellular carcinoma Advanced cirrhosis with complications including:

• Refractory ascites
• Encephalopathy
• Other adverse factors including malnutrition,
severe comorbidities, hepatorenal syndrome
• Liver transplant contra-indicated • Bacterial infection, current bleeds, raised INR,
hyponatraemia, unless they are a candidate for
liver transplantation or amenable to treatment of
underlying condition.

General neurological diseases

• Progressive deterioration in physical and/or • Swallowing problems (dysphagia) leading to

cognitive function despite optimal therapy recurrent aspiration pneumonia, sepsis,
breathlessness or respiratory failure

• Symptoms which are complex and too difficult to • Speech problems: increasing difficulty in
control communications and progressive dysphasia

Parkinson’s disease

• Drug treatment less effective or increasingly • Dyskinesias, mobility problems and falls
complex regime of drug treatments

• Reduced independence, needs ADL help • Psychiatric signs (depression, anxiety,

hallucinations, psychosis)

• The condition is less well controlled with • Similar pattern to frailty - see below
increasing “off” periods

Motor neurone disease

• Marked rapid decline in physical status • Significant complex symptoms and medical
complications
• First episode of aspirational pneumonia • Low vital capacity (below 70% predicted
spirometry), or initiation of NIV

• Increased cognitive difficulties • Mobility problems and falls

• Weight loss • Communication difficulties

Multiple sclerosis

• Significant complex symptoms and medical • Communication difficulties e.g.

complications dysarthria + fatigue

• Dysphagia + poor nutritional status • Cognitive impairment notably the onset of

dementia

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3. Frailty, dementia, multi-morbidity

Frailty for older people with complexity and multiple comorbidities, the surprise
question must triangulate with a tier of indicators, e.g. through Comprehensive Geriatric
Assessment (CGA)

• Multiple morbidities • PRISMA-7 questionnaire - at least 3 of the

following:
• Deteriorating performance score Aged over 85, male.
Any health problems that limit activity?
• Weakness, weight loss exhaustion Do you need someone to help you on a
regular basis?
• Slow walking speed - takes more than 5
Do you have health problems that cause
seconds to walk 4 m
require you to stay at home?
• Timed Up and Go test (TUGT) - time to In case of need can you count on someone
stand up from chair, walk 3 m, turn and close to you?
walk back Do you regularly use a stick, walker or
wheelchair to get about?

Dementia: Triggers to consider that indicate that someone is entering a later stage are

• Unable to walk without assistance and • Plus any of the following:

• Urinary and faecal incontinence and weight loss,
• No consistently meaningful conversation urinary tract Infection
and severe pressures sores - stage 3 or 4
• Unable to do activities of daily living (ADL) recurrent fever, reduced oral intake,
aspiration pneumonia
• Barthel score > 3

Stroke

• Use of validated scale such as NIHSS • Cognitive impairment / Post-stroke

recommended dementia

• Persistent vegetative, minimal conscious • Other factors e.g. old age, male, heart
state or dense paralysis disease, stroke sub-type, hyperglycaemia,
dementia, renal failure

• Medical complications, or lack of

improvement within 3 months of onset

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