Tag: Icu acquired weakness

ICU-acquired weakness (ICU-AW) is a common complication affecting approximately 25–75% of patients who spend prolonged time in the intensive care unit. Understanding which factors are associated with acquired weakness in the ICU is crucial for early prediction and prevention, as this condition can significantly worsen patient outcomes.

Studies suggest that a significant number of patients who survive a critical illness in the intensive care unit (ICU) may experience new or worsening health problems known as ICU acquired complications. These can include a range of issues, from muscle weakness to cognitive and psychological impairments, that can profoundly impact long-term recovery.

Over 50% of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) survivors experience at least one of the problems associated with Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS). This clinical condition is the answer to the question, 'What are the side effects of ICU stay?' and can significantly impact a person's life long after hospital discharge.

According to research, critically ill patients face an increased risk of developing various complications that can prolong hospitalization and increase mortality. This guide explores what are the most common complications in the ICU, covering both those directly caused by the illness and those related to the intensive treatment provided.

ICU delirium, a state of acute brain dysfunction, affects 20–50% of non-ventilated and up to 80% of mechanically ventilated patients. So, what is the most common problem in the ICU? The answer is complex, involving not just the primary illness but a cascade of secondary complications that arise during a critical care stay.

While definitions vary across medical literature, a patient's stay in the ICU is considered prolonged once it exceeds a certain duration, reflecting increased illness severity and resource consumption. So, **what is considered prolonged ICU stay** and what does it mean for patient care and recovery?