High N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide: a biomarker of lung cancer?

Background: The level of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is affected by many known factors. Our study aimed to evaluate whether other factors, in particular lung cancer, could be responsible for an increase in NT-proBNP levels in a population with no known risk factors for elevated NT-proBNP.

Patients And Methods: This study was based on the RIABO (Recueil de l'Ischémie au Bloc Opératoire) database, a single-center registry that prospectively records in elective noncardiac surgery.

Bedside adherence to clinical practice guidelines for enteral nutrition in critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation: a prospective, multi-centre, observational study.

Introduction: The primary aim was to measure the amount of nutrients required, prescribed and actually administered in critically ill patients. Secondary aims were to assess adherence to clinical practice guidelines, and investigate factors leading to non-adherence.

Methods: Observational, multicenter, prospective study, including 203 patients in a total of 19 intensive care units in France.

Effect of a nurse-implemented sedation protocol on the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Objective: To determine whether the use of a nurse-implemented sedation protocol could reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in critically ill patients.

Design: Two-phase (before-after), prospective, controlled study.

Setting: University-affiliated, 11-bed medical intensive care unit.