Introduction Gastrointestinal (GI) issues and maladies and in particular GI bleeding, liver dysfunction, and pancreatitis can complicate the primary course of critically ill neurologic patients. In addition, patients with hepatic…
Introduction Respiratory monitoring is an important aspect of managing patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), including those with neurologic problems. Obviously, detecting gas exchange abnormalities is essential to…
Introduction The neuroendocrine system is important for body homeostasis but can undergo significant changes in response to critical illness. During the acute phase of critical illness or trauma, anabolic hormonal…
Introduction Acute brain injuries triggered by head trauma, intracranial aneurysm rupture, cardiac arrest, and stroke among others are an enormous medical, social, and economic problem. Acute traumatic brain injury (TBI)…
Introduction The basic tenet of neurocritical care is prevention of secondary injury. Secondary injuries following the initial ictus include global increases in intracranial pressure (ICP), alterations in cerebral perfusion, hydrocephalus,…
Introduction Bleeding and thrombosis are common complications in the intensive care unit (ICU); their impact on neurologically ill patients is of particular concern because these complications may result in permanent…
Introduction Hyperglycemia is common in acutely ill patients. In the past, stress hyperglycemia was considered to be a beneficial adaptive response. However, prospective observational and clinical trial data show a…
Introduction The brain’s survival and function depend on its ability to maintain a constant supply of oxygen and energy-rich substrate. To accomplish this feat the complex architecture of the brain…
Introduction There is growing evidence that the physical design of clinical spaces affects the quality, efficiency, and experience of care in intensive care units (ICUs) and other settings. These effects…
