Preferences for thromboprophylaxis in the intensive care unit: An international survey.

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent complication in critically ill patients, who often have multiple risk factors. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis is widely applied to lower this risk, but guidelines lack dosing recommendations.

Objective: This survey aims to assess current thromboprophylaxis preferences and willingness to participate in future randomized clinical trials (RCTs) on this topic.

Incidence and determinants of malpositioning tracheostomy tubes in critically ill adult patients.

Tracheostomy tubes are chosen primarily based on their internal diameter; however, the length of the tube may also be important. We performed a prospective clinical audit of 30 critically ill patients following tracheostomy to identify the type of tracheostomy tube inserted, the incidence of malpositioning and the factors associated with the need to change the tracheostomy tube subsequently. Anthropometric neck measurements, distance between the skin and tracheal rings and the position of the tracheostomy cuff relative to the tracheal stoma were recorded and analysed.