Standards for research in NHS Wales critical care units: A modified Delphi study.

Introduction: The importance of research and development in all aspects of healthcare is well acknowledged. Within critical care, national guidelines provide a limited number of standards and series of recommendations on Research and Development (R&D) activity. The aim of this study was to create a broader set of standards in support of R&D activity in critical care departments.

Ventilator-tube holder for mobilising patients with a tracheostomy: A pilot usability study (TrachVest).

Introduction: Patients in intensive care may have a tracheostomy and be dependent on a respiratory ventilator while yet conscious and able to mobilise. Early rehabilitation is known to be key to patient recovery. However, for these patients, therapy staff members are required to manage the ventilator tubing in addition to other patient-connected equipment whilst focussing on patient mobility and progress.

A 5-Year Review of a Tracheostomy Quality Improvement Initiative: Reducing Adverse Event Frequency and Severity.

Objective: The number of tracheostomies performed annually in resource-rich countries is estimated at 250,000. While an essential procedure, approximately 20% to 30% of patients will experience at least 1 tracheostomy-related adverse event. Within tracheostomy care and across wider health care environments, quality improvement (QI) programs have been shown to reduce patient harm and improve outcomes.

Therapy professionals in critical care: A UK wide workforce survey.

Introduction: National guidelines suggest recommended staffing levels for therapies. The aim of this study was to capture information on existing staffing levels, roles and responsibilities and service structures.

Methods: An observational study using online surveys distributed to 245 critical care units across the United Kingdom (UK).