A large-bolus injection, but not continuous infusion of sodium selenite improves outcome in peritonitis.

Administration of sodium selenite in septic shock has been associated with apparently conflicting results that may be related to different dosing schedules. Bolus administration, leading to a transient pro-oxidative effect, could limit the inflammatory reaction and improve outcomes. We studied 21 anesthetized, mechanically ventilated, invasively monitored, and fluid-resuscitated sheep.

Drotrecogin alfa (activated) for severe sepsis: could we consider a shorter treatment period in patients with a favorable course?

Purpose: The objective of this study was to develop a model to identify patients in whom drotrecogin alfa (activated) (DAA) might be administered for periods shorter than the recommended 96 hours.

Methods: We did a retrospective chart review of all 124 patients treated with a standard 96-hour infusion of DAA in a 31-bed department of intensive care. Using a stepwise approach, we identified and combined parameters that could help predict outcomes to achieve the best sensitivity associated with 100% specificity.