The implementation of an analgesia-based sedation protocol reduced deep sedation and proved to be safe and feasible in patients on mechanical ventilation.

Introduction: Deep sedation in critically ill patients is associated with a longer duration of mechanical ventilation and a prolonged length of stay in the intensive care unit. Several protocols have been used to improve these outcomes. We implement and evaluate an analgesia-based, goal-directed, nurse-driven sedation protocol used to treat critically ill patients who receive mechanical ventilation.

[Characteristics and impact of sedation, analgesia, and neuromuscular blockage in critical patients undergoing prolonged mechanical ventilation].

Aim: To describe use of sedatives, analgesics, and neuromuscular blockers (NMB) in patients undergoing long-term mechanical ventilation and to assess factors associated with their use and their association with mortality at 28 days.

Design: Prospective observational multicenter cohort study.

Setting: Thirteen intensive care units (ICU) in Chile.

[Characteristics and factors associated with mortality in patients receiving mechanical ventilation: first Chilean multicenter study].

Background: The outcome of mechanically ventilated patients can be influenced by factors such as the indication of mechanical ventilation (MV) and ventilator parameters.

Aim: To describe the characteristics of patients receiving MV in Chilean critical care units.

Material And Methods: Prospective cohort of consecutive adult patients admitted to 19 intensive care units (ICU) from 9 Chilean cities who received MV for more than 12 hours between September lst, 2003, and September 28th, 2003.

Procalcitonin used as a marker of infection in the intensive care unit.

Objective: To determine the value of procalcitonin (ProCT) as a marker of infection in critically ill patients.

Design: Prospective, observational study.

Setting: Medicosurgical department of intensive care (31 beds).

Electrocardiographic alterations during treatment of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol.

The electrocardiographic (ECG) changes in Bolivian patients with mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, treated with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol, were evaluated. Electric changes due to the antimonial compound appeared in 45% of the patients, and consisted of repolarization alteration, principally affecting the T wave and the S-T segment. The changes disappeared within 2 months following the end of the antimonial treatment.