Pressure support ventilation in intensive care patients receiving prolonged invasive ventilation.

To our knowledge, the use and management of pressure support ventilation (PSV) in patients receiving prolonged (≥ 7 days) invasive mechanical ventilation has not previously been described. To collect and analyse data on the use and management of PSV in critically ill patients receiving prolonged ventilation. We performed a multicentre retrospective observational study in Australia, with a focus on PSV in patients ventilated for ≥ 7 days.

Auditing an intensive care unit recycling program.

Background: The provision of health care has significant direct environmental effects such as energy and water use and waste production, and indirect effects, including manufacturing and transport of drugs and equipment. Recycling of hospital waste is one strategy to reduce waste disposed of as landfill, preserve resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and potentially remain fiscally responsible. We began an intensive care unit recycling program, because a significant proportion of ICU waste was known to be recyclable.