Noninvasive ventilation safe in general, but not for CAP
Major finding: Patients started on NIV in general wards had a significantly lower incidence of intubation (14.5% vs. 47.3%) and shorter length of stay (11.6 vs. 15.9 days) than did those for whom NIV was initiated in the ICU.
Data source: Chart review of 463 patients treated with NIV on general floors and 184 started on NIV in an ICU; retrospective cohort study of 136 patients with CAP started on NIV in an ICU and 93 who were intubated.
Disclosures: Both studies were internally funded. Dr. Gavilanes and Dr. Murad each reported having no financial disclosures.
AT THE CRITICAL CARE CONGRESS
"Patients with CAP treated with NIV have a high likelihood of requiring intubation and developing significant complications. Patients started on NIV for severe CAP should be considered for early intubation if found to require vasopressor or have persistent hypoxemia/acidosis," Dr. Murad said.
Both studies were internally funded. Dr. Gavilanes and Dr. Murad each reported having no financial disclosures.
