Patient stress in intensive care: comparison between a coronary care unit and a general postoperative unit.

Objective: To evaluate and compare stressors identified by patients of a coronary intensive care unit with those perceived by patients of a general postoperative intensive care unit.

Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted in the coronary intensive care and general postoperative intensive care units of a private hospital. In total, 60 patients participated in the study, 30 in each intensive care unit.

Breathing pattern in weaning patients: comparison of two inspired oxygen fractions.

Background And Objectives: An inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2) of 40% is often used for weaning patients, but lower FiO2 values are also recommended, if arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2)/ FiO2 >150-200 mmHg. This study aimed to compare respiratory variables and vital data values recorded during use of sufficient FiO2 (ideal) to maintain peripheral oxygen saturation at 92% with values recorded during use of FiO2 established at 40% (baseline) in weaning patients.

Methods: Prospective cross-over study.